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10 MONTH BABY FOOD : FEEDING IDEAS
BABY FOOD IDEAS FOR 10 MONTH OLD
You may notice that your baby has few teeth, can swallow food more easily, and has started sitting with confidence. As such, 10 months is the best time for introducing 10 month baby food or most of the family’s food products in the form of minced or chopped food, except for salt, sugar, honey, and cow’s milk.
You shouldn’t force the baby to eat, though, because every baby is different and adapts to certain eating habits differently. Make sure to continue encouraging his eating habits with all your strength. Make sure to continue offering finger foods and spices to him as you did during the nine-month period.
You should always remember that solid food can’t replace the nutrients breastmilk and formula provide to a child in their first year. Thus, you may want to include solids in your baby’s diet as a complement to breastfeeding. For your baby, it is recommended that homemade foods are always preferred.
In the first year, solid food cannot replace the nutrients that have been provided by breastmilk and formula. You may, therefore, consider adding solids to your baby’s diet as a complementary feeding. You should always choose homemade foods for your baby since they are safe.
- Fruits: A wide variety of fruits, excluding citrus fruits
- Vegetables: all seasonal vegetables
- Cereals & Grains: Almost all grains and cereals
- Pulses: Yellow Moong Dal, Masoor Dal, Chickpeas (White and Black) Chana, Urad Dal, Green Gram, Toor Dal, Bengal Gram Dal, and Soybeans
- Dairy: any dairy product except cow’s milk
- Non-Vegetarian: Egg yolks, chicken mince, seafood
- Spices: Turmeric, garlic, ginger, asafoetida, cumin seeds, pepper, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, caroms, fenugreek, mustard seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom all can be added in little amounts, say a pinch.
Make sure the 10 month baby food is well balanced in terms of nutrients.
BABY IS ALMOST 10 MONTHS OLD: HOW MUCH FOOD DOES BABY NEED?
During the first 10 months of a baby’s life, you can offer three meals a day and a light snack, such as finger food, which can be offered anytime. You should feed your baby only by breastfeeding or formula feeding. Make your meal and snack timings according to the preferences of your baby.
WHAT IS THE QUANTITY PER DAY FOR A BABY?
Always follow your baby’s appetite when deciding on food quantity, as appetite changes from baby to baby, and most babies change daily. You can estimate a certain amount of food:
- Cereal – 1/4 to 1/2 cup
- Vegetables – 1/4 to 1/2 cup
- Fruits – 1/4 to 1/2 cup
- Dairy – 2 to 3 tbsp
- Meat/Protein – 4 tbsp
It’s best to introduce one food at a time and follow the “three-day rule” which will help you find out whether you are allergic to a particular food. Keep an out for allergy-triggering food when choosing 10 month baby food.
NOTES:
In a vessel filled with boiling water, immerse the bowls and spoons you are using for feeding your baby for five minutes, then put them back in the same container for use.
As some of the recipes are family recipes, some of the ones above are prepared with additional spices. Depending on your baby’s tastes, you can adjust the ingredients.
If you are introducing solid foods to your baby, you should never introduce more than one food at a time.
Sugar, salt, milk, and honey should not be included in your baby’s food until he or she turns one.
If you notice any symptoms of an allergy when you introduce a new food to your baby, you should stop feeding him or her.
You can feed your baby breast milk or formula milk on demand.
If your child is introducing a new food, make sure to consult your pediatrician first.
Compared to pressure cooking, steaming provides a healthier alternative for baby food. Using a steamer or Idli pot is therefore my preferred method of steaming.
WHEN CAN MY BABY JOIN IN WITH FAMILY MEALS?
As her digestive system is still developing, your baby won’t be ready to eat everything you can eat at 10 months. Prepare 10 month baby food that is suitable for the child. Nonetheless, she can still be a part of family meals, provided that you do not provide any of the following:
Honey: It contains bacteria that can sometimes cause infant botulism, a rare condition. Honey is also a type of sugar, which can be damaging to your baby’s developing teeth.
Raw, runny, or under-cooked egg: Eggs should always be cooked thoroughly so that they are both firm to the touch.
Low-fat and low-calorie foods: The foods you are recommending won’t provide your baby with enough energy, so they won’t meet her needs. Low-calorie and low-fat foods can also contain other additives and ingredients that may not be suitable for babies and toddlers.
Whole nuts: Whole nuts should not be given to your child until she is five years old, due to the risk of choking. Nuts and nut butter that is powdered and well ground are fine.
Salt: Don’t add extra salt to your baby’s food because it can harm her kidneys. Your baby should also be limited in the number of salty foods they consume, such as namkeens, chips, cheese, sausages, and processed meats. Prepared foods like sauces and cereals can contain surprisingly high amounts of sugar, so read the labels before giving them to your child. Those under one year old should consume less than 1 g of salt each day (0.4 g of sodium).
Sugar: Sugary foods and drinks can cause your baby’s teeth to decay, and they may also encourage a love of sweets. Rather than sugar, you can add fruit purée or raisin purée or your baby’s usual milk to sweeten the food.
Some types of fish: The nervous system of your baby may be affected by high mercury levels in sharks, swordfish, and marlin. Please do not feed your baby raw shellfish, as this may cause food poisoning.
Saturated fat: Fried foods, pakodas, chips, namkeens, biscuits, and cakes contain high levels of saturated fat. These foods sate your baby without providing much in the way of vitamins, so it’s best to stay away from them. As long as your baby is growing well along her growth curve, she also won’t need extra ghee, butter, or fats.
10 MONTH BABY FOOD: NOTES
Aside from these foods, your baby can share the same meals as the rest of the family. She’ll love having the same as you and seeing you enjoy a range of foods may help her to be a more adventurous eater. See our article on eating with the family for some interesting recipes.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that the rest of the family has to eat bland food. If family members prefer more salty or spicy meals, just take out a separate portion for your baby before adding seasoning to the food. Learn more about how and when to introduce spices in your baby’s diet.
You’ll notice your little one’s getting better at feeding herself all the time, too. At 10 months, she’s probably trying to feed herself with a spoon, though she’s unlikely to manage it just yet. See if your baby can handle 10 month baby food.
Help and encourage her by letting her hold on to her own spoon as you feed her with another one. Give her plenty of finger foods as well, to give her the chance to experiment with feeding herself.
Reference: Food I Feed My 10 Month Old
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Dad’s Guide to Baby’s First Foods
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
So far, your baby has only needed breast milk or formula as a source of nutrients. However, she must move on to solid food to maintain her growth. It is essential to be aware of a baby's first food when that occurs. Health professionals recommend waiting until they're around six months old before beginning solids for babies younger than six months. Solids are more like purees and mushes than solid food. However, your little one may be ready a few weeks earlier than that mark. Signs that your child is ready to eat solid food You can tell your baby is ready for solids or baby's first food by the following signs. The baby looks a bit hungry after a milk feeding - he's waiting for more to come. Make noticeable chewing faces with your fork as you put it into your mouth. Pay attention to your mouth as you eat. She was trying to grab food within reach or pointing at the food on the table. Holding his head up and taking food with his tongue for long periods. A child who isn't ready for solid food will push the food out again, a reflex commonly seen in infants. The best advice for Dads or any parents is to observe their child and be patient when it comes to feeding the baby's first food. Here are the first foods that you should feed your baby It would be best if you pureed or solid mashed foods thoroughly so that they are almost runny so that you don't upset your child's stomach. Since your baby's digestion is still developing and doesn't have any teeth yet, first solid foods should be pureed or mashed. Among good first foods are beans, squash, and carrots. Cooked and pureed apples, pears, apricots, peaches, pumpkin, peas, sweet potatoes, and green beans. It is best to give your baby iron-rich cereal or rice. If you mix them with breast milk or formula, the baby gets more iron. Bananas and avocados are uncooked and mashed. Here are some ways to introduce solid food to your baby: Before giving your baby any formula, give him a milk feeding. Solid food is introduced after milk feeding for up to 8 months. Make sure your baby does not react to one food for three to five consecutive days to make sure there is no reaction. Your first food should be tried when your baby appears relaxed and happy, not when she's starving, tired, or angry. Early in the afternoon or at lunchtime are good times to introduce it. The carrots may not be appealing at first, but that's okay. You can try again tomorrow, and if the baby still doesn't seem interested, you can wait a few days before trying again. You may have to try ten different foods before discovering your princess's passion for one. You should let your baby decide how much to eat. She will likely not enjoy consuming vegetables if forced to eat them. Take her appetite into consideration. Begin by giving her a few teaspoons of vegetables. Since babies have an empathetic sense of taste, they don't require salt, sugar, or spices to flavour their food. A baby's first food should be neutral, nutrient-rich, and easy to digest. Some people insist on heating their baby's food, but this comes down to baby’s preference rather than parental taste. Before spooning him food that's been heated, test that it's not scalding hot before offering it to him. Unless you like orange patterns on your kitchen floor, you'll need a high chair, lots of bibs, and some protective plastic mat. It's easier for your baby's gums to use a plastic feeding spoon, which is smaller and gentler. When you compare it to your baby's tiny mouth, plastic spoons seem enormous. Food can become less runny and more textured as your baby gets older. Routines and foods to try Mixing different foods will allow your baby to experience a variety of tastes once they have mastered solid food. Introduce meat into her diet because she needs more iron to support the growth of her rapidly developing brain at six months old. Here are some food options to add to the baby's menu: It is essential to puree, mince, or make a broth of meats such as beef, chicken, liver, and lamb so infants can eat them. The yolk of a hard-boiled egg Melon, plum, and nectarines that have not been cooked Toast, cereals, and crackers make great finger foods. Introduce these foods after the baby has been eight months old: Spaghetti, cabbage, and creamed corn cooked together Fish, except if your family is known to react negatively to fish, in which case you should wait until your child is a year old Rice and pasta Unless you have a family history of nut allergies, wait until your child is three years old before giving it smooth peanut butter. Foods made from soy, such as tempeh and tofu Kiwifruit, oranges, strawberries, pineapples, and tomatoes If there is a dairy allergy in your family, wait until your baby is a year old before giving them yogurt, cheese, custard, and ice cream. When babies start with solid food, the baby's first food can be a good starting point. Eight months after your baby's birth, you can introduce finger foods such as slices of soft fruit, mashed potatoes, cooked vegetables, and pasta. Keeping your baby away from hard popcorn kernels, hard nuts, or hard candy will prevent them from choking. A baby's diet will become increasingly dependent upon solid food after eight months and even replace milk. In addition to your child's three daily meals, breastmilk or formula snacks can be given mid-morning and afternoon if your doctor approves. It is important to encourage family meals from the start. Bring the highchair up to the table with your two children so that you can enjoy a meal together. Through your actions, you will teach your baby the mechanics of eating to understand how to share a meal with others and eat healthy food. You can find more information about baby's first food on Yummy Valley's blog. Baby's first food tips for dads: Make sure your baby does not inherit your food preferences. To illustrate this point, if you don't like broccoli, you shouldn't introduce it to your baby in a manner indicating you don't like it. After all, why should your baby enjoy broccoli if you don't like it? Whenever you serve food, make encouraging noises, such as "Yummmyyy broccoli." To feed the baby's first food, make the feeding process fun. Tips for new dads who want to start their baby's introduction to solid food successfully will allow you to create your baby's introduction to solids on the right foot. As you prepare for each stage, not only will you ensure that your baby is ready for success, but you will also be able to rest easy before your infant's first feeding. To obtain more information, you can always contact your pediatrician. We hope you enjoy the journey! As your baby's first solid food, try Yummy Valley's, Millet Health Mix.
View MoreHow does organic food benefits children?
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Every time the topic of healthy eating comes up, the term organic seems to pop up. Nutrient-dense organic foods are well known to offer the best nutritional value. With the increase in the use of genetically modified organisms, in which one species is infused with DNA, organic food and organic food benefits have become an increasingly important issue. People have always returned to nature after going against nature. Mothers are advised to nurse their newly born babies when they are taken for an excellent reason. Good nutrition is essential for the development of a young child. Parents must choose the right type of food for their children. Organic food is well documented to be beneficial for both babies and toddlers, and there are several articles on the subject. Organic food benefits are numerous. Organic food benefits To understand why toddlers need organic food, here are a few reasons. Organically-grown food contains fewer pesticides and herbicides. A child's immune system is not completely developed when they are still babies and toddlers, so chemicals present in genetically modified food can interfere with their health. The health of babies is seriously threatened by foods that are not organic. In addition, babies are more likely to be exposed to chemicals than adults. Due to their small size and relatively low weight, infants are more likely to be exposed to chemicals. Organic foods are free of GMOs Even though most of what we eat is converted in our bodies to build organs and tissues, this will still have a detrimental effect on the structure and function of growing bodies. Nobody wants to subject their babies to food that has been altered. The baby's immune system could be weakened as a result. The organic food benefits are that it is free of GMOs. Organic food is fresh. Many preservatives are added to packaged foods that aren't fresh and are sold in supermarkets. Preservatives can cause childhood behavioural issues in toddlers, such as hyperactivity. Babies and toddlers benefit from the high amount of nutrients in fresh food and get a better source of nutrition from it. It is hard to get fresh products but one of the main organic food benefits is that it is fresh. Your mental and emotional health and the environment can be affected by the way food is grown. People with allergies to foods, chemicals, or preservatives may find that their symptoms decrease or disappear by eating only organic foods. The nutrients in organic foods are typically higher than those in conventionally-grown foods. Pesticides are less abundant in organic produce. Traditional farming uses a wide range of chemicals such as synthetic fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides, and the residues remain in the food we eat. Organic food generally tastes better because it does not contain preservatives which prolong its shelf life. Sometimes organic produce is grown on smaller farms nearer where it is sold (but not always, so pay attention to the farm where it's grown). The environment tends to be better off with organic farming. By using organic farming practices, farmers may reduce pollution, conserve water, reduce soil erosion, increase soil fertility, and use less energy. As well as being better for nearby birds and animals, farming without pesticides is also healthier for nearby residents. Antibiotics, growth hormones, and animal by-products are not used organically to raise animals. The consumption of animal by-products increases the risk of mad cow disease (BSE), and the use of antibiotics can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. As a result, organically raised animals have more room to roam and access the outdoors, which keeps them healthy. GMOs are not present in organic food. Plants whose DNA has been altered to resist pesticides and produce insecticides have been genetically modified or referred to as genetically engineered foods (GEs). Does it mean organic pesticide-free? Organic food has the significant benefit of having lower pesticide levels, as mentioned above. Although organic farms use pesticides, they are not free from their use. Organic farms use only naturally-derived pesticides instead of synthetic pesticides as opposed to commercial farms. Natural pesticides have the reputation of being less toxic, but some have been found to pose health hazards. Thus, eating organic will allow you to reduce your exposure to harmful pesticides. Organic food benefits extend beyond the fact they are pesticide-free. What are the potential risks of pesticides? Because a great deal of pesticide exposure has built up in our bodies over many years, we have an accumulated build-up of pesticides. It may cause headaches, congenital disabilities, and increased stress on an already weakened immune system, as well as cause a chemical "body burden." In some studies, even low levels of pesticide usage have been associated with increased risks of various cancers, including leukaemia, lymphoma, brain tumours, breast cancer, and prostate cancer. The immune system, body, and brain of children and fetuses are still developing. Thus, they are most susceptible to pesticide exposure. Children exposed to early environmental toxins may suffer developmental delays, behavioural disorders, autism, immune system alterations, and motor disorders. Pregnant women are at greater risk from pesticides due to the stress pesticides add to their already overworked organs. Furthermore, pesticides can pass from mother to child through the womb and breast milk. The importance of organic labelling when it comes to fruits and vegetables The following fruits and vegetables contain the highest level of pesticides, so organic versions are preferred: Apples Cucumbers Sweet Bell Peppers Celery Grapes Potatoes Cherry Tomatoes Summer Squash Kale/Collard Greens Nectarines (imported) Spinach Hot Peppers Peaches Strawberries Buying organic fruits and vegetables isn't necessary. Pesticides are generally not used on these conventionally-grown fruits and vegetables called the Clean 15: Asparagus Mushrooms Avocado Cabbage Eggplant Sweet Corn Kiwi Mango Onion Pineapple Papaya Sweet Peas (frozen) Grapefruit Sweet Potatoes Cantaloupe Consider buying organic meat, eggs, and dairy products if you can Agriculturally raised animals feed soybeans, grains, antibiotics, growth hormones, pesticides, and sewage sludge. Animals subjected to these practices and people who consume their meat, eggs, or milk may suffer serious health consequences. Organic food benefits are significant. Whenever possible, purchase beef and dairy products that are said to be "pasture-raised" or "100% grass-fed." For pork, chicken, and eggs, select certified organic products. It may be possible to afford eating organic without compromising your food budget by buying cheaper cuts of meat from organically raised animals. If you'd like to buy organic chicken thighs instead of conventional chicken breasts, try doing so. Organic food buying tips Seasonal purchases are best. In season, fruits and vegetables are the most affordable and fresh. To make sure you're buying the freshest possible food, find out when your market's produce is delivered. Consider your options. You can compare prices at the grocery store, the farmers' market, online and even in the freezer aisle for organic products. Sometimes the organic food benefits outweighs the cost of the product. It is better, in the long run, to opt for the organic food benefits. Having organic food does not always mean that it is healthy. We often make junk food sound fit in the food industry, but organic baked goods, desserts, and snacks are often very high in sugar, salt, fat, or calories, even if they're organic. You should read the ingredients carefully. It is essential to remember a few key things when deciding between organic food and GM food. Even though organic food is quite expensive, it is better to invest in the health of your offspring today than to channel the same money later into their treatment should they become ill. Shop at Yummy Valley Now
View MoreWhat’s on the menu for baby-led foods?
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
What is baby led weaning? More and more parents use baby-led weaning as an approach, as it has gained popularity in recent years. What does that mean? In baby led weaning, babies are introduced to solids through finger foods that are age-appropriate for their age. By grabbing, handling, and bringing the food to their mouth, your baby can practice their motor skills. This can also help them discover and learn about different textures, tastes, and smells. We expect that they will eventually be able to eat some of their food on their own without being spoon-fed. Your baby has the freedom to play with food and will learn to eat it after playing with it. This is unlike spoon feeding. We have broken down baby-led weaning foods based on age below. There are certain foods you should avoid altogether, and the most appropriate ones for your baby at each weaning stage. This guide is intended to help you along the way as you wean your baby. When is it safe to start baby led weaning? You should wait until your baby is at least 6 months old before introducing baby led weaning. Doctors recommend that you check with them before starting any weaning before 6 months of age. The guidelines may differ in other countries. Unless your baby is over 6 months, it's recommended that you start with pureed foods to start. In order to start baby led weaning after six months, your baby must be comfortable doing the following three things: Maintain a steady position with their head upright without assistance The ability to pick up food and put it in their mouths has developed fine motor skills Eat instead of chewing and spitting out food When your baby is able to do these things, you can begin introducing baby led weaning. Is it necessary to choose between baby led weaning and puree feeding? There is no need to choose between puree feeding and baby led weaning; you can combine both. Puree feeding and baby-led weaning don't have to be mutually exclusive; you can use both strategies simultaneously. Many parents believe that they have to choose between the two. Alternatively, if you feel it's best, you can offer both purees and finger foods at the same time. In this way, your baby will get both nutritional benefits. In particular, if your baby doesn't seem to be eating enough with baby-led weaning, it will help. Their ability to handle and eat finger foods will improve over time. When that happens, you can gradually phase out purees. The process of learning to eat food on their own may take a while for babies. Therefore, supplementing their finger food explorations with some purees, for a while, will ensure that they get adequate nutrition and will also enable them to experience baby led weaning. What's the best way to get started with baby led weaning? It may take a while for babies to learn how to eat on their own. As a parent, you can support them through the weaning process. The following are some ways to get started with baby-led weaning. Maintain the same amount of milk for the baby You do not have to change your baby's milk feeds when weaning begins. You should continue to provide your baby with the nutrition she needs through her bottle or breastmilk. Serve soft, mild finger foods as batons Introduce your baby to soft foods that are mild and easy to digest, and then gradually introduce them to textures and tastes your baby will enjoy. To make it easier for your baby to grasp and hold first foods, cut them into slices and batons that are large enough. To make them safe for your baby, make them long enough so that you can fit them in your fist with some sticking out for them to chew on. Using your own index finger as a guide, you can determine the size of these batons. Provide a wide variety of foods Over the course of the week, give your baby a variety of foods. She will enjoy touching them, tasting them, and playing with them. You shouldn't rush her or make her eat right away. Let her choose what to eat. Introducing different textures and tastes gradually will help your baby develop healthy eating habits. By the time they turn one, they will eat the same meals as the rest of the family. Are you ready to begin? Listed below are some foods to feed your baby at each feeding stage: 6 months of baby-led weaning with first foods Starting with fruit and vegetables that are mild in taste and easy for babies to digest are great choices for your baby's first foods. Fruit and vegetables cut into batons or slices make great first foods for infants. Their gums can easily mash them about and they are easy to digest. Here are some foods you might like to try: Fruits: Apples – soft cooked apple slices Avocados Bananas Nectarine slices Peach slices – soft ripe peaches Pears – ripe slices or steamed pieces Plum slices – ripe slices or steamed pieces Vegetables: Broccoli florets – steamed Carrots – steamed or boiled batons Cucumber batons – peeled Green beans – steamed or boiled Peas – cooked Pieces of squash and butternut squash that have been cooked Sweet potato – peeled and cooked pieces Grains: Rice Oatmeal Yummy Valley's Millet Health Mix is ideal for anyone looking for easily digestible baby food. 6 - 8 month Baby Led Weaning Foods Increase the variety of foods available to babies When your baby has become accustomed to their first soft fruit and vegetable, you can introduce a wider variety of foods, such as lean meats and fish. Vegetables like courgettes usually have the skin removed before serving to babies. Some babies' stomachs can be affected by the acid in the skin of courgettes and aubergines. Here are some foods that your baby can try as well as continue to enjoy those you have already tried. Fruits: Apricots Mango – ripe and soft pieces Nectarine slices – ripe Peach – ripe and soft Plums Vegetables: Courgettes – peeled and cooked until soft Parsnips – peeled and cooked Pumpkin – soft cooked pieces Meats & Fish: (all cooked through until soft and tender) Chicken Turkey White fish (avoid larger fish and check thoroughly for bones) Grains: Fingers of bread, pitta or toast Pasta pieces Barley Breadsticks Unsalted rice cakes Oatcakes Try Kerala Banana Powder by Yummy Valley for nutrient-rich baby food. What if my baby gags? It's quite common to gag as you start a baby-led weaning process. Don't be concerned about your baby choking. In most cases, it's just their way of pushing foods forward that need a bit more chewing. Your baby may start gagging if they are seated upright or lean slightly forward so the food they are chewing falls out of their mouth. When your child is learning to chew and cope with lumps and textures, watching them gag is a frustrating experience, but if you keep calm and help them, they tend to cope. However you choose to wean your baby, it's always a good idea to have some first aid training so that you can handle choking issues properly. You should avoid all foods that are choking hazards. Among them are: whole nuts grapes marshmallows hot dogs popcorn Baby led weaning: Notes If you are thinking about starting baby led weaning, I hope the points above will have cleared your doubts. However, now that you know the importance of baby led weaning, there is no reason for you to delay it any further. Start gradually with more and more solids at each meal, and you will be amazed at how much children enjoy variety in their diet as well as intellectual growth, health and not to mention all the fun. Feed your baby right.
View MoreWhy do baby’s spit up and how to resolve it.
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Having Problems With Feeding: Why Do Baby's Spit Up Spit up occurs in all babies, especially after they intake air through breastmilk or formula. A cloth is essential when a baby's position changes suddenly after a feeding or when the stomach is full. Upon opening, the sphincter can allow stomach contents to back up the esophagus. Spit up happens more often to some babies than to others. Could there be anything you can do to reduce this frequency? Do you know whether your baby's symptoms are part of a larger issue? Spitting up is medically referred to as gastroesophageal reflux. This occurs when milk or solid food in your baby's stomach goes up into their esophagus. A tube connecting the mouth and the stomach is known as the esophagus. Vomiting and spitting up are two different things. The baby usually doesn't notice they've to spit up. Vomiting is painful and forceful. Because babies' digestive systems aren't fully developed, they often spit up. When they eat too much or swallow air while feeding, this happens most commonly. Until they are approximately 6 months to 1 year of age (around when they start eating solids), most babies spit up. Especially for first-time parents, these symptoms can be frightening. Most of the time, simple spitting up is not an indication of an allergy or intolerance, nor is it a sign of frustration. It is often possible to alleviate these symptoms by slowing down or adjusting the feeding. You can reduce the spit up by introducing organic baby food. Common Parent Concerns About Why Do Baby's Spit Up Most of the time, my baby spits up after feeding. This condition can be caused by gastroesophageal reflux in mild cases. Action to be taken: Nothing. As your baby's muscles mature, your infant's spitting up will become less frequent and stop. Most of the time, the process simply takes time. There is a lot of gas in my baby's stomach and she seems to gulp her food. Possible cause: Getting more air in your lungs than usual (Aerophagia) Action to take: Ensure that the baby is positioned correctly. My baby spits up when you bounce him or play after meals. Possible cause: Overstimulation Action to take: During mealtimes, keep a calm attitude. Don't involve your child in active play for about 20 minutes afterward. The spitting up of my baby has changed into vomiting with muscle contractions occurring after every feeding. She throws up with a lot of force. Possible cause: A diagnosis and treatment are needed for pyloric stenosis or another health condition. Action to take: Immediately schedule an appointment with your pediatrician so that he or she can examine your child. The spit-up or vomit of my baby had blood in it. Possible cause: Diagnosis and treatment are required for esophagitis or other health problems. Action to take: Get your infant examined by your pediatrician as soon as possible. Vomiting versus spitting up: what's the difference? There is a major difference between the two. During a vomiting attack, the stomach contents are thrown up with force through the mouth. When stomach contents escape easily from the mouth, they are frequently accompanied by a burp. Your baby won't be distressed or unhappy by spitting up, as it doesn't cause forceful muscle contractions, brings up only small amounts of milk, and doesn't cause any discomfort. If you know Why do baby's spit up, you will be able to solve it. Introduce tasty baby food to reduce the occurrence of spit up. What causes vomiting? A person experiencing vomiting will experience contractions of the abdominal muscles and diaphragm, combined with relaxed stomach muscles. In response to exposure to these stimuli, the "vomiting center" in the brain triggers this reflex action: Infections or blockages of the gastrointestinal tract can irritate or swell the stomach and intestine nerves. A blood drug test can reveal substances in the blood Sights or smells that cause psychological stimulation Motion sickness is caused by noises from the middle ear (as in vomiting). Your pediatrician should always be contacted if your baby vomits forcefully after each feeding or if there is ever any blood in the vomit. Spitty Babies: Remedies In fact, feeding suggestions can help you deal with your baby's spit up regardless of whether watchful waiting or medical intervention is required. Here are five tips for reducing baby spit up: Avoid overfeeding. Almost like a gas tank, don't fill your baby's stomach too full (or too quickly) or they will gurgle right back out at you. Your baby should be fed smaller amounts more frequently to help reduce the chances of overeating. Frequently burp your baby. Having too much gas in your baby's stomach can cause lots of problems. Due to the way gas bubbles release, they tend to bring the stomach's contents up with them as well. You should burp both after and during meals in order to minimize the chances of this happening. Hold your baby upright after meals and limit active play. After a baby eats, pressing down on his belly can increase your chances of forcing anything in his stomach into action. In addition to tummy time, delaying it for a while after meals can serve as an effective way of reducing the need for it. Consider the formula. You should consider formula feeding as a cause of spitting up for your baby boy. Some babies appear to favor one formula over another without any true allergies or intolerances, but about 5% of them are genuinely intolerant to the proteins found in milk or soy formula (a condition known as milk-soy protein intolerance (MSPI)). If your baby spits up, it could be one of several signs that it's time to talk to your pediatrician about alternative formulas. You might want to try a hypoallergenic (hydrolyzed) formula for 1 or 2 weeks if your baby has a true intolerance. Try a little oatmeal. With one possible exception, it is generally not recommended to give babies cereal before 6 months. When a child has dysphagia or reflux, for example, his or her food should be thicker in order to swallow safely or prevent reflux. Remember: Having your baby feed before he or she becomes overly hungry will help you reduce spit-up. When your baby takes a break during feedings, gently burp him or her. Your baby should be kept upright for at least 20 minutes after meals and you should limit active play. It is important that you closely supervise your baby during this time. Now you know why do baby's spit up. The fact that babies spit up regularly does not affect their health. There is little reason to worry if your baby appears comfortable, eats regularly and is gaining weight. It is not harmful for your baby to spit up the calories. When he or she gains weight, the calories lost through spitting up are not a concern. Depending on the size of a spit-up stain, it's easy to overestimate how much your baby has spittled. Reference: Why Does this Baby Keep Spitting Up? Image: Pexels
View MoreTop Questions Parents Ask About Baby Diet Plan
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
When is the best time to start solid food for a baby? A baby diet plan for Approximately the first 6 months should be spent exclusively breastfeeding. It means you do not need anything other than breastmilk during the first six months of a baby's life. It is not necessary to provide water to breastfeed because breast milk contains 80% water. Due to medical or personal conditions, if you wish to wean after 4 months of the baby, please speak with your Pediatrician and, if agreed, here are some suggestions for weaning a 4 to 6-month-old baby. After 6 months of exclusively breastfeeding, I started feeding my babies solid foods according to my baby diet plan. Could we introduce a new food every day? The pediatrician recommended that I introduce one new food a day before 12 PM in the first part of the day. In recent years, studies have found that the practice of offering the same food for two to three days to determine allergies is no longer necessary in babies aged 6+ months. Studies have found that babies aged 6+ months should be offered new food every day instead. Consider the possibility of allergy-triggering food in the baby diet plan. According to the latest guidelines, parents should introduce allergy-prone foods such as citrus fruits, nuts, wheat, eggs, fish, berries, melons, and brinjal as soon as possible between 6 and 8 months to prevent allergies or reduce the impact of allergies, if any. Please consult with your Pediatrician about these points for more information. Is it best to skip breastfeeding in order to introduce solids? Solid foods should not be given to babies under 1 year of age if breastfeeding has been interrupted. After breastfeeding, as usual, solid foods can be introduced later. After nursing, it is recommended that you feed solids at least 30 minutes to an hour after breastfeeding, based upon the baby's appetite, baby diet plan, and mood. If your baby is overly hungry or drowsy, you should delay solid feeding. Instead, wait until the baby expresses happiness. The first half of the day is the time to introduce new foods so that any allergies can be noted and treated. Continue breastfeeding before every meal until the baby turns one. Following one year, you should breastfeed a total of five to six times a day according to the baby's demands and baby diet plan. How many meals does a baby need a day? In addition, too much solid food can cause constipation in babies if given 2 to 3 times a day. The breastmilk provides the baby's major source of nutrition until he is 1 year old. Adding solid foods to the baby diet plan is just complementary in order to meet their additional dietary requirements. I supplement their diet by adding one meal per month. The baby gets more breastmilk and does not suffer any constipation. However, some doctors suggest beginning with more meals per day to prevent constipation. That's up to you. Listed below are my recommendations according to my baby diet plan. Having completed 6 months (180 days), I began to give one food each day at brunch time on the 7th month (running). My 8th (running) month of eating has added one more meal after completing 7 months (210 days). Breakfast and late lunch have been added. I completed 8 months of running in 240 days, adding one meal in the 9th month (running). It included breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. Then, on the 10th month (running), I added a snack after completing 9 months of training (270 days). During this period, I provided breakfast, lunch, an evening snack, and dinner. You should add something to your breakfast on the 11th month (running), after you have completed 10 months (310 days). I didn't include the snack time for the morning because my baby was napping by then, so I was not able to fit it in. In addition to 3 meals and 2 snacks, after 11 months (340 days), the baby will have 3 meals and 2 snacks in the 12th month (182 days). How much water is required for a baby? Post-meal, two to three sips of water are enough if you are breastfeeding on demand. Our food supply will increase as we feed water after every meal as we increase the number of meals per month. There is no need to add more water as it will fill the baby's tummy with the liquid. Your pediatrician should determine the amount of water to give formula-fed babies. Please do not give water in bottles or sippers. Give water with a spoon or in a small cup instead. I give my baby water in a small silver tumbler. When my baby first spits out the water, I give him more. You don't have to worry about it. They will get used to it eventually. It is not advisable to feed water in between meals, because it will interfere with the digestion process. Sips of water should be given after meals. Is it safe to give my baby juice or soup? Watery foods or soups or juices are not recommended for babies under a year old as they fill their tummies instead of breastmilk and offer less nutrition. Additionally, watery porridges or purees should also not be consumed. Because babies eat very little, offering thick, healthy foods with dense nutrition makes sense. Stick to a safe and nutrient-rich baby diet plan. What is the right amount of food to feed a baby? A new mom's most commonly asked question. It's up to the baby to decide the quantity. Prepare only a small quantity. Initially, the baby might eat just 1 or 2 teaspoons and gradually might increase to 1 or 2 tablespoons. Adjust the quantity in the baby diet plan according to the baby’s appetite. When the baby finishes the whole bowl, next time slightly increase the quantity that you prepare for the baby. It is not recommended to force a baby to eat food. If the baby shows signs of "NO" like turning their head away from the food, zipping up their mouth, spitting continuously, or crying, stop feeding them. There are some days where the baby does well and some days when the baby doesn't eat at all. That's okay. There's no need to force it. You shouldn't force a cranky baby to eat. In order to make up for a meal she hasn't eaten well, she drinks more breastmilk. Whenever possible, I offer her a favorite dish during the next meal. It's not a good idea to serve alternates at the same meal since it will encourage selective eating! Are there any foods that help babies gain weight? Avocado, potato, sweet potato. Cooked Nendhran banana Curd rice & yogurt smoothies Sprouted Ragi porridge Sago + urad porridge Rice: mix it with fruit & vegetable purees Ghee: Add melted ghee to food offered in the daytime. Include moong dal at least once a week Should I give iron-rich food to my baby? Yes. For foods rich in Iron like Spinach, Beetroot, Peas, Sweet potato, Eggs, Poha, Rice, Meats, Lentils & Legumes, either add a few drops start with 3, and gradually increase it to 10 drops before feeding or mix a few drops in water that will be given after meal or just give a piece of orange or any other vitamin-C rich fruit. Citrus fruits, Berries, Kiwi, Papaya, or if possible add vitamin-C rich veggies Tomato, Cauliflower, Broccoli, Potato, Capsicum, Cabbage, Brussel sprouts while making that food. Iron is better absorbed by the body when vitamin C is present. If your child receives iron-rich foods, the calcium in the milk and milk products (like paneer, curd) inhibits their absorption of iron. Unlike milk, ghee is calcium-free, so it can be eaten with foods high in iron. Asking Questions is Good Having questions about the baby diet plan is good. It helps clear our minds and prevents unnecessary problems. Make sure that you get answers from verified and valid sources. Look out for baby food allergies and take precautions if there is a family history of any allergies. Please consult a pediatrician if you plan to make any changes to your baby's diet or you have any further questions. Keep in mind that it is normal to have questions especially when it comes to baby foods. Getting advice from trusted sources will help you get the best results.
View More6 Toxic Ingredients Found in Baby Food & Baby Formula
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Toxic Ingredients Found in Baby Food There are many recent studies that have suggested that a large amount of baby formula can contain harmful chemicals that are damaging to your infant and even affect their growth and development. The study found that approximately 80% of the formulas contained arsenic along with a wide range of other ingredients you would not approve of. The World Health Organization and many other organizations proclaim that breastfeeding is best for babies; however, for some new moms, this is simply not feasible. Therefore, education on other options is important, such as goat milk formula, for such moms. You may want to keep an eye out for or avoid these ingredients in baby food: Sucrose The presence of sucrose in formula despite being one of the milder toxins, can still cause a number of problems. As one of the essential ingredients in formula, it aids in the digestion of the milk; however, it has been reported that some formulas contain too much. Children may become obese and suffer from dental problems such as weak enamel. Additionally, it can be addictive. Soy Soy-based products account for approximately one-fifth of all formulas sold, and although they may seem harmless, soy poses many issues when used as an ingredient for infant formula. It is common for genetically modified soy to be laced with pesticides or weed killers, which is not ideal for a newborn baby to consume. Artificial DHA and ARA ARA and DHA are natural fatty acids found in breast milk; however, in formula, they are synthetically manufactured to reassure parents that their infants are getting a high-quality formula. Despite their benefits, artificial versions are derived from algae and fungus, which are not intended for human consumption. In the process of gathering, the petroleum-based solvent hexane can be used, which can end up in the formulation and negatively affect the nervous system of the consumer. A number of studies have demonstrated that synthetic DHA and ARA are useless, have no benefits for babies, and may even contribute to some stomach problems. Dioxin Formula for your baby contains this substance, which is known to cause cancer. This chemical is found in many foods and places in our environment, making it very difficult to avoid. Infants are born with this substance already in their bodies, and are then fed it continuously for life after birth. Preservatives There are both normal and organic formulas that contain these substances. The manufacturer adds preservatives such as beta carotene and ascorbyl palmitate to extend the shelf life of its products. Artificial substances can cause the body to create toxins that can even cause infants to fail to reach developmental milestones and cause negative changes in their sight and hearing. Synthetic Nutrients The purpose of adding synthetic nutrients to formula is to mimic breast milk. Examples include L-Carnitine and lycopene. Due to manufacturers trying to process these ingredients in the cheapest way while using harmful chemicals to make them, it's known that they can be toxic, resulting in long-term harm to infants who consume them. The findings of studies have demonstrated that children fed toxic rich formulas are more likely to develop chronic diseases and to die younger. Watch out for Heavy Metals Nowadays, it's difficult to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals, and there is heavy pollution everywhere you look. We as adults have developed immune systems to fight these effects, and in comparison with our body weight, we take in a much lower amount than those in children. These chemicals can, however, cause harm to newborns and small infants who have highly weakened immune systems and low body weights, leading to brain damage and stunted development. As a parent, it's important to stay informed and aware when it comes to making decisions about your child's diet. Heavy metals can be found in soil, water, and the air we breathe. We can ingest these metals through the food we eat because plants absorb them as they grow. Despite the fact that some heavy metals (like iron and zinc) are necessary for our bodies, others (like arsenic and lead) are harmful. There are some crops, like rice, that absorb more of these harmful metals than others. Over time, heavy metals can accumulate in the body and harm learning, behavior, and attention. Some food additives may contain heavy metals when added to baby food. Vitamins and minerals are added along with food additives. Some baby foods contain more heavy metals than others, such as: infant rice cereal infant rice puff snacks teething biscuits and rice rusks fruit juice carrots and sweet potatoes It is possible that organic baby food may contain heavy metals. While baby food contains low levels of heavy metals, you can take steps to reduce them even further. Here are ways to do that: Make sure your baby eats a variety of healthy foods. A balanced diet can reduce the amount of heavy metals that your baby is exposed to. Give infants more than rice cereal. Offer your baby other cereal types such as oatmeal, barley, quinoa, and multigrain cereals. Keep serving carrots and sweet potatoes. These vegetables are packed with nutrients. Be sure to serve them along with other fruits and vegetables. Fruit juice should not be given to your baby. A child under 1 year old should not consume juice since it can cause cavities and weight gain. Drinking formula or breast milk for babies and water and milk for older children is the best way to keep babies hydrated. For your baby, you should feed fruits instead of juice, since they contain more fiber and nutrients. You can prepare your own baby food. When you make your own baby food, you can avoid additives and foods with high levels of heavy metals. Serve the same foods that you eat as a family, but in a way that your baby can understand. Smooth purées are necessary for infants just starting solid food. When making rice dishes, use white basmati rice and sushi rice. These types of rice contain less arsenic than other types. Before cooking rice, ensure that it is thoroughly rinsed. Make sure you add plenty of water while cooking, and then drain any extra. By doing so, you'll reduce the amount of arsenic. Reduce baby food snacks, such as rice puffs and oat ring cereals. Pureed, mashed, or soft foods that are rich in nutrients such as fruit, vegetables, eggs, cheese, or yogurt, are a better alternative to processed snacks. You can also reduce the amount of sugar, salt, and refined flour your baby consumes. Preparing snacks for your baby is an excellent idea if you choose rice-free or multigrain options. Teething biscuits should not be used. Instead, you should give your baby a cold, not frozen teether or a wet washcloth to chew on. Make sure your water is clean. Lead pipes can cause lead to accumulate in the water. The water in many people's wells may contain lead and other heavy metals. Want to learn the Tips To Help Improve Sleep For Busy Moms & Dads? Click here!
View MoreHow I established a healthy sleeping habit for my baby
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Healthy sleeping habit for my baby As a mother, I can vouch for the fact that newborn babies sleep a lot. In the first few weeks, as per my observation, a healthy baby sleeps somewhere between 16 to 18 hours per day. A baby’s sleep cycle will alter between 3 to 4 hours as he/she needs to be fed well, when awake. It undoubtedly means sleepless nights and days for parents. This phase moves on quickly although it might feel like an eternity. As per my observations and research, babies undergo light & easily disturbed sleep rather than sound sleep most of the time. This kind of sleep helps with the baby’s healthy brain development. Change in sleep patterns with gradual growth Between 6 to 8 weeks, the baby sleeps for long spells during the night. However, he/she needs to get fed during the night as well. Start training your baby to sleep more hours at night gradually and safely by encouraging healthy habits. Encouraging good and healthy sleep habits in babies As discussed above, the baby develops sleep habits from as early as six weeks. From a certain time period after the 6-week mark, babies start developing the natural circadian rhythms that help him/her to process and regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Tactics to help your baby sleep healthily On average, a baby sleeps for 2 hours in the first 6 to 8 weeks. Overtiring a baby by not putting him/her to sleep within this 2-hour window can be stressful and tiresome, which will affect the sleep cycle. Spotting the signs to know if my baby is tired or not is one way I make sure that I won’t disrupt the sleep cycle, and this tactic works like a charm every time. The signs include rubbing the eyes, flicking the ear, whining & crying, appearances of faint dark circles under the eyes, staring blankly into space, yawning, stretching, and losing interest along with becoming quiet. A baby will most often turn his/her face away from moving objects and people. Check these signs of sleeplessness, stress, and tiredness and put him/her to sleep as soon as possible. With practice, we all will know about the daily rhythms and patterns of the baby. This is the first and most important tactic to keep an eye out for. The second tactic for healthier sleep is to make your baby understand the difference between day and night. Start training your baby slowly about the differences between day and night, maybe after a 2 week period. During day time take him/her for an outing, change the clothes when he/she awakes, play as much as possible, chat and sing while he/she is being fed, and keep the house and his/her room bright. Wake the baby gently when he/she nods off. During the nighttime, change to nightclothes, keep all-natural noises down and dim all the lights. All these could make the baby understand between day and night. The third tactic is to let the baby fall asleep without any help. After your baby crosses the duration of 3 months, he/she should be trained to sleep without any help from the parents. Place your baby on the bed when he/she is sleepy, but still awake. Stay with him/her until the baby drifts off to sleep. Train him/her to sleep at night and be awake in the day on a daily basis. Setting a routine plays an important part as the baby will expect it to continue for a prolonged period. Read a story, sing a song, feed, or rock the baby at your convenience. Adopt the same strategy every night to make it a routine. Regardless of the people around you, make your baby’s sleep healthier by allowing him/her to fall asleep without any external help. This helps in building healthier sleep habits, which gets continued for a lifetime. This routine can help develop self-confidence in babies at a very young age and will be fearless & innocent from the get-go. Right interactions with the babies will make them more playful and confident in their activities. Beware of sleep problems that can happen at a young age Now that we looked into and discussed the tactics that can be used to instil a healthy sleep pattern in babies, let us delve into the sleep problems that can disturb your young charmer. It might be hard to identify the sleep problems in a baby at an early stage. This is because of the rhythm difference between your’s and your baby’s daily routines when it comes to sleep. During the baby’s first months, he/she require plenty of cuddles and night-time feeds. If possible, sleep with the baby matching his/her rhythm so that he/she will always feel safe, secure while you are nearby. As per my observations and understanding, coping with nighttime waking gets easier if the baby is on the same bed as you or on a small cot/cradle at an arm’s length. This way, a new mother can feed the baby whenever the need arises regardless of the time while staying half-asleep keeping an eye on the baby every time as much as possible. When the baby starts feeding on a formula diet, you can switch between the feeding timings ensuring that you and your baby stay healthy all the time. In the first few weeks, make it a practice to swaddle the baby in a warm cloth. These are some of the observations and understandings I made while raising up my baby. Following these will help any couple to put their baby to a healthy and sound sleep, which is very much necessary for your little bundle of joy. Also, the above-discussed ways are by which I established a healthy sleep habit in my baby. Want to learn how this mother took care of her fussy eating baby? Click here and find out!
View MoreThe New Mother: How to effectively take care of yourself after giving birth
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Effectively take care of yourself after giving birth The New Mother: How to effectively take care of yourself after giving birth The time after giving birth is a joyous time for a mother. However, it is a period of healing and adjustment. The first six weeks after childbirth is called the postpartum period. During these weeks, you will have a post-delivery checkup with your doctor to examine your health. This can be the most beautiful phase of your life in which you will develop the initial bond with your baby. After the birth of my baby, I experienced some challenges in adjusting to my everyday life. I had to take care of myself while taking care of my baby. Adjusting to motherhood can be hard especially if you are a new mother. Usually, new mothers do not return to their offices or workplaces for at least the first six weeks after birth. This time allows them to adapt as well as develop a new normal. I also experienced some sleepless nights as my baby has to be fed and changed diaper often. I felt this was frustrating and tiresome until settling into a routine. There are a few tips that you can follow for an easier transition. Never forget to take care of yourself. Giving little priority to self is very important in this period! Take rest whenever you can I was not able to sleep much in the hospital after giving birth. The first few weeks after giving birth are an important time for us mothers to rest whenever we can. I used to sleep and rest when my baby sleeps. I limited visitors for at least the first 2 weeks so that I can rest and get breastfeeding well established. Getting plenty of rest helped me with recovery. To cope with tiredness and fatigue I tried to get as much as sleep possible. As my baby woke up every two to three hours for feeding, I made sure that I got enough rest and sleep whenever I can. You should call your doctor if you can't sleep or feel anxious most of the time. Seek help if required It is always a good idea to recruit help regardless of whether it is your first or fourth baby. I asked my friends and family members to help with household chores, running errands, cooking, and childcare, especially during the first week. This can be instrumental in your postpartum recovery as it will free up some time in your new and busy schedule. The first month of having a new-born baby at your home can be quite overwhelming. I felt like all of my time is focused on caring for my baby. I was not afraid to ask for help during this time. I didn’t hesitate to accept help from my friends and family during my postpartum period. Your body needs to heal after this period. You can get much-needed rest by seeking practical help around the home. My family and friends helped to care for my other children in the home. They also helped with preparing meals and running errands. Eat healthy to stay strong You can promote healing by eating healthy meals and maintaining a healthy diet. I increased my intake of fruits, whole grains, vegetables, and protein during my postpartum period. Moms should also increase their fluid intake after giving birth. An increased fluid intake is especially important if you are breastfeeding. While nursing baby you may find that you become very thirsty. Milk and water are good choices. Talk with a registered dietitian or your healthcare provider if you want to learn more about postpartum nutrition. Nowadays many certified lactation consultants are available who can help with advice about breastfeeding and nutrition. It is important to care for yourself while looking after your new-born. Whether you delivered by C-section or vaginally, your body has experienced trauma throughout your entire pregnancy and during the delivery. I allowed myself to become the best mother I can be by allowing myself to properly recover. Exercise daily Exercise is another important factor during the postpartum period. My doctor let me know when it is OK to exercise. However, the activity should not be strenuous. If you have had a cesarean section do not lift anything heavier than your baby. After giving birth, I used to take long walks near my house. But a change of scenery can be refreshing and will increase your energy level. During pregnancy and birth, your body has undergone many changes. Besides rest, you need time to recover. For the first week after delivery limit stair climbing as much as possible. It is important to seek professional help from experts or doctors when needed. Make baby care simple You can follow a simple baby care routine in the initial days than trying to specialise in every step of baby-sitting from day one. As babies do not need a bath every day, you can keep your baby's care simple. Just wipe off the baby's face, hands, and diaper area daily. Once you get used to with the baby care routines expand the steps to bathing, oil massaging, exercising baby etc. It is always a better idea to seek help from experts around to bath or burp baby in the initial days. Be Positive! After giving birth, you will need to start rebuilding the positive energy as your body and mind would have exhausted. Even if you can only manage to sleep, care for your baby, and eat that is enough. A mother needs to progress through many changes during the postpartum period and it’s okay to take time. To recover both emotionally and physically, you should be practical and positive to changing roles in life. Want to learn how these parents learned to sleep better through parenting? Click here and find out!
View MoreWhat I Learned About My Baby’s Food Allergies & Sensitivities
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
My Baby’s Food Allergies A food allergy is an abnormal reaction of the body to a particular food. Being a mom, I have noticed reactions to certain foods in my child’s diet. Sometimes my baby cries, fusses, or even nurses more frequently once I consume spicy or "gassy" diets. These are some common symptoms my infant shows as a reaction to allergic food that reaches the body. The strong response associated with a food allergy will occur rapidly, often within seconds. In mild cases, it can be any time within 2 hours after eating the trigger food. If a child displays signs after 2 hours, it’s hard for parents to identify the problem, unless they are aware the kid is sensitive to the food consumed. I always prefer to make a list of foods prior to feeding the same for the first time and check the responses of my little one to mark the food as safe and non-allergic. Start Gradually to Identify Food Allergies in your kids It is advised to begin with a few non-allergenic foods first to see how the baby handles solid food. Foods that comprise single-grain iron-fortified infant cereals, meats, and beans are encouraged as first foods, as they furnish nutrients like iron and zinc. Potentially allergenic foods, like eggs, peanut products, wheat, and fish are also recommended because postponing their introduction can increase the chance of food allergy. Specific diets like walnuts and chunks of peanut butter extend a choking risk, so the quantity of food and its consistency are also expected to be analyzed. Cow's milk and soy milk can only be given for 12 months. Serve plain fruits, vegetables, and meats rather than diverse varieties. If the newborn responds to a specific food, stop serving that food. It is the second time kid consumes the food that the allergic symptoms occur. If IgE antibodies react with food at this point, histamines are released, which can lead to hives, asthma, itchy mouth, shortness of breath, abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhoea in the child. Only two or three out of every one hundred newborns have an allergic consequence, most frequently to cow's milk in their mother's diet. Most babies eventually outgrow their allergy to cow’s milk, although food allergies to other substances can last a lifetime. Causes of Food Sensitivities Children are supposed to be at extremely high risk for evolving food allergies if they have a family history of food allergies, moderate to serious eczema, or asthma. The intestine acts as an obstruction, retaining undigested food particles in the digestive tract, but those with leaky gut have small spaces between the cells of their intestinal lining. This enables food particles from inside the intestines to ‘leak’ through the gut lining into the bloodstream, resulting in a variety of symptoms, often including eczema. Topical creams can lower the external indications of eczema, but they are only a band-aid treatment to cover the symptoms, meaning they do not get to the "cause." Nothing will benefit more than curing holistically from within. Aiding the baby’s gut is the crucial element in resolving their food sensitivities and eczema because the healthier a baby’s gut is, the better their digestive and immune systems function. So far, no evidence not eating certain foods while breastfeeding can contribute to a child developing allergies or asthma. However, if the family has had severe food allergies, limit intake of milk and dairy products, fish, eggs, peanuts, and other tree nuts during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Carefully monitor the baby for skin rashes, respiratory problems, unusual stools, or other allergic symptoms and tell the paediatrician about the family's medical history. How to Avoid Food Allergies If your baby responds negatively to a particular kind of food, you should stop feeding that specific food temporarily. If these signs persist every day and last for a lengthy duration, they may indicate colic rather than food sensitivity. Do not assume that the baby will be "clear" if a particular food has been introduced without reacting to it. It frequently takes a few introductions before indications are noticeable, as responses can worsen with every subsequent feeding and kids can outgrow their allergies as their bodies and immune systems mature. Allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish normally persist for life. Only 10-20% of children who have these allergies will outgrow them. Many develop milk, egg, wheat, or soy allergy on their first birthday, but it can persist until age 5-9. But these allergies also tend to resolve less often than in the last decades. Sometimes, an allergy can result in a drastic reaction named anaphylaxis, even if a prior reaction was mild. Anaphylaxis can commence with some of the exact symptoms as a less serious reaction, but it can shortly get worse. The child may have difficulty breathing or pass out. More than one portion of the body may be affected. If left untreated, anaphylaxis can be life-threatening. When the sensitivity risks have been reduced, it is instructed to reintroduce the diets that the newborn is sensitive to, one at a time. Some professionals advise that each food be consumed by itself, in the morning, before the child eats anything else. Food allergies are incurable. But medications can treat both mild and severe symptoms. It's also a promising notion to carry an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine for the child, as this can help treat mild allergy signs. A rotation diet assures that no one food is eaten further once every four days; rotating and modifying food intake in such a means will avoid new sensitivities from developing. A rotation diet has advantages to address the whole family, not only those impacted by food sensitivities. It contributes to a mixture of fresh, nutrient-rich, unprocessed diets. This ideal sort of diet can prevent and occasionally correct digestive problems. Learn how this mother increased her child's appetite to eat more by clicking here!
View MoreSprouted Ragi Porridge: Baby Food Recipe
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Sprouted Ragi Porridge Easily digestible and nutritional, finger millet/ragi is easy to cook. Millet is the first nutrient-rich grain recommended for babies. For babies below 7 months, only the milk is extracted from this millet and porridge is made. After completing 7 months, whole ragi porridge can be given using whole ragi flour or sprouted ragi flour for more nutritious porridge. In our family, we give this sprouted ragi porridge till the baby turns one. A wholesome diet is key to a baby’s healthy growth and development. By setting your baby on a healthy eating path, you will ensure they follow a healthy lifestyle as they grow. Incorporate ragi into your child's diet as it is a super-food with many benefits. Ragi is one of the healthiest grains that you should feed your child. What Is Ragi? It contains large amounts of proteins, iron, and calcium. Ragi is also called finger millet or nachni. India is a leading producer of ragi in the world. This whole grain contains important amino acids like phenylalanine, methionine, isoleucine, and leucine. Ragi can be grown during the summer even when it's extremely dry. How to Prepare the SPROUTED RAGI PORRIDGE Putting together the porridge requires only 11 minutes total. There are very few ingredients, so getting the ingredients only takes a minute. Making this baby food takes little time and can be done in less time. INGREDIENTS Sprouted ragi powder - 2 tablespoons Half a cup of water. Half a tablespoon of ghee INSTRUCTIONS Put 2 tablespoons (leveled) of sprouted ragi powder in a pan. Pour in 12 cups of water. Whip or stir until smooth, without lumps. Using a low-medium flame, cook the food. When the color changes from pale to dark after 2 minutes, add a little ghee and continue stirring. Ten minutes is the maximum amount of time you should cook it. Be careful not to let it thicken too much. Shut off when it has thickened only slightly (not too much). Preparing sprouted Ragi Porridge for babies: Tips and Tricks Feed this porridge as soon as possible because it thickens over time. Once the food has warmed, transfer into a feeding bowl and feed. Stir well and turn on the stove to prevent lumps. Stir continuously for the entire cooking time of 10 minutes. The mixture is left unsweetened for 1-year-olds, you can add sugar or filtered cane jaggery or palm syrup (jaggery) after the child is 1year. Cook for 3 more minutes or until slightly thickened after adding it at the 7th minute. Over time, this porridge will thicken, so feed it as soon as possible. Mix well, then preheat the stove so you don't get lumps. For the entire cooking time of 10 minutes, keep stirring. In case you don't like the taste of the honey, you can add sweeteners like cane sugar or filtered cane jaggery or palm jaggery. It should be added at the 7th minute and cooked for 3 more minutes or until slightly thickened. Nutritional Benefits of Sprouted ragi Porridge for babies Ragi contains calcium, potassium, iron, protein, and fiber. A common question parents have is whether ragi is good for babies? Ragi is good for babies. As early as six months of age, babies can benefit from a diet rich in ragi, which contains essential nutrients. The following are some of the health benefits your child can derive from this super cereal: Ragi contains a high amount of calcium, so it is beneficial for the bones of young children. By reducing the risk of fractures and eliminating calcium supplements. It reduces the need for bone-building supplements. In addition to this, ragi help the body produce more blood. Fibre aids digestion and contributes to feeling full in babies Ragi has a lot of dietary fiber, which can result in quicker digestion and a longer period of feeling full. As ragi is high in amino acids, it removes excess fat around the liver as well as reduces cholesterol levels in a child's body, reducing obesity. Natural source of iron Children can benefit from the natural iron present in ragi by preventing anemia. Sprouting Ragi contains Vitamin C, which is responsible for improving iron absorption. Because of its high nutritional content, Ragi defends babies against malnutrition. Relaxes the body and mind There are significant amounts of antioxidants in ragi, and its consumption helps alleviate many health problems, including insomnia, anxiety, and headaches in children. Basically, ragi provides comprehensive nutrition for the body. Boosts skin and hair health You can help promote your baby's healthy skin and hair by providing him with methionine. Ragi is a powerful antioxidant that helps keep the skin and hair healthy. Conclusion When consumed regularly, ragi kanji, ragi malt, or ragi porridge is nourishing and provides a good amount of nutrients. They strengthen bones and teeth and improve overall health. Ragi Porridge is one of the first baby foods recommended for babies. This food is easily digestible, and it contains a lot of nutrients that help the child grow and develop all around. For babies, it is a quick and easy meal that can be made in a fraction of the time. It is an important component of a balanced diet for babies. Feeding a child is a difficult task but it has to be done. Make the process simple by choosing a quality and healthy food for your baby, such as sprouted ragi. Ensure your baby is eating healthily by experimenting with a variety of foods. Calcium, potassium, iron, protein, and fiber are found in ragi. Ragi contains a lot of dietary fiber, which can make digestion faster and keep a person full for a longer time. Since ragi have a high level of amino acids, it helps to reduce fat around the liver and cholesterol levels in a child's body, helping to prevent obesity. In addition to its high antioxidant content, ragi is believed to alleviate a number of health problems, such as sleeplessness, anxiety, and headaches in children. This is because ragi essentially take care of the body's nutritional needs. The best-sprouted ragi powder can be found at Yummy Valley. The origins of the ingredients are transparent with Yummy Valley. Click here if you want to learn more about the nutritional benefits and recipes of millet mix.
View MoreHow I Handled My Fussy Eating Baby
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Here is How I Handle My Fussy Eating baby. As a parent, I get my daily exercise while feeding my child. It is no secret that children are fussy or picky eaters when it comes to healthy food. I got one here at my home. In the routine of feeding babies, we sometimes forget to ask ourselves if they are eating healthy. Even though greens are healthy, I have difficulty feeding my baby healthy baby food. A fussy eater is always a concern for every mother. The constant complaint is that she doesn't eat well and even when she eats, it's not healthy food. Under forceful feeding, I observed that the child suffered. It made me rethink my strategy. Here is how I get my baby to eat healthily. I've discovered ways to get my baby to eat healthy after doing some intensive research through trial and error. The secret is not to create a funny routine or use a special recipe. This is a combination of tips and tactics that I found useful for getting my baby to eat healthy food. It is important to prioritize the health and well-being of the child. After all, we are what we eat. I would like to share the guidelines I used to get my baby to eat healthy before getting into details. Force-feeding is unhealthy for children I used to force-feed my child. This concept is based upon the notion that you must be rough to do good. I thought I was helping, but it wasn't the case. Food should have a positive influence on the relationship between parents and children. Forcing children to eat leads to an aversion to food. I learned this the hard way. When we force-fed, the baby was not happy, neither was I. As soon as I brought food to her, the baby began crying and running away. It made the baby feel uneasy. Remember don’t force-feed the children. When you force-feed the child, you damage the relationship with the baby. Be sure feeding time is a loving experience for the parents as well as the children. Focus on time over Quality. The most important thing I have learned is to not worry about the amount of food but rather when to feed the baby. The baby's stomach is only 2 to 5 times as large as the baby's hand. I learned that children should eat four meals each day. Be specific about the time, such as 8:00, 12:00, 16:00, and 20:00. Find the ideal time to feed the child. If you start feeding, then it should stop after one hour. Between nine to twelve o clock, the child should not be offered anything other than water. Usually while feeding porridge we used to sit for hours to finish a bowl. Now whatever she eats, even if it is two or three spoons, we stop after one hour. It seems to help both the baby and me. Hold Back on the Sugar and Milk. Sugar and milk may seem like normal ingredients, but sugar-rich treats and milk will keep the baby from getting hungry. The average baby needs less than 200 ml of milk per day. Excess sugar is not good for health. As soon as I learned these facts, We cut back on the consumption of sugar and milk. Reducing unhealthy habits can lead to a healthier diet. That does not mean that you should completely avoid these things. Just keep an eye on the amount of sugar and other unhealthy food consumed. I sometimes use sweets to encourage good behaviour. I recommend starting healthy snacking behaviours as early as possible. Snacks can be used as mini-meals to add more grains, fruits, and vegetables to your child's diet. Add vegetables and fruits When it comes to eating healthy, it is best to choose organic and green foods. Nevertheless, I have trouble getting my baby to eat vegetables. However, eventually, we overcame the difficulty. The trick is to keep in mind that the children are tasting these ingredients for the first time, and it may take some time to get used to them. Not every taste is familiar to them. Include vegetables and fruits in daily porridge gradually. Though they may not like it the first time, that does not mean they will not try again. That's when you need to be patient. I tried over weeks to get her to eat vegetables and finally one day she acquired a taste for it. It no longer requires much effort to get her to eat those fruits and vegetables; it is merely a matter of patience and time. Conclusion It is possible for children to become fussy eaters or to acquire a taste for some food. It is important to be patient and introduce new tastes consistently to get the fussy eater to get more. The relationship between parents, children, and food needs to be healthy. Feeding time should be one of affection, play, and love. I understand how hard it is to feed a fussy eater and how worried parents are about their children. However, no matter how deep your worries are, do not force feed the children. Concrete on when to feed your child rather than how much. Rather than quantity, focus on quality. Feed the children at least four times a day at a specific time interval. Reduce unhealthy foods, especially sugar and milk, gradually. Get your children acquainted with the taste of vegetables and fruits by including them in the daily diet. Make sure the feeding experience is filled with love and enjoyment. Every child is unique and deserves your unconditional love and patience. You should not be discouraged if your attempts to get your picky eater to eat aren't 100 percent successful at first. No matter how much your little one hates eating anything but grapes, they are definitely not going to live off grapes for the rest of their lives. Children tend to eat the same types of foods for a while and then switch to other types. Look at the amount of food they consume over the course of a week (or even a month) rather than what they consume at a single meal or on a particular day. Learn this mother's tips to make her baby eat healthy by clicking here!
View MoreBaby Food Recipes: Banana Porridge Recipe
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Banana Porridge Recipe Bananas are efficient, tasty, and affordable--a perfect fruit for people pressed for time, which happens every day. Consider treating bananas as a backup food when you're on the go with your kids rather than eating them every day. Besides offering great taste and convenience, bananas are also loaded with nutrients that are good for you - especially for babies. A lot of nutrients are found in this easy-to-digest baby food. Learn how to make banana porridge as baby food and the benefits of bananas for babies by reading this article. Bananas for babies - when can they eat them? When a baby is ready to start solid food, which typically occurs around 6 months of age, bananas can be introduced. It is a good start when it comes to solid food for babies. If you are concerned about choking hazards, begin by slicing up some bananas. Are Bananas Good For Babies? Certainly. As well as providing carbohydrates to energize your body, bananas provide nutrients your baby needs to thrive, such as folate, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and potassium. They support a healthy nervous system, healthy skin, iron absorption, and healthy blood pressure. The good news is that bananas are packed with more antioxidants than many berries, herbs, and vegetables. The banana is neither a vegetable nor a fruit. The banana is actually a berry. Nutrition varies with ripeness. Bananas, for instance, contain a large amount of fiber that helps to maintain a healthy digestive system. Furthermore, the prebiotic fiber contains less in under-ripe bananas than in ripened bananas, which contain more soluble fiber. Whatever stage of ripeness your banana is in, bananas are a great addition to your child's diet. When combined with a healthy protein or fat, such as peanut butter thinned with yogurt to reduce the chance of choking, a healthy snack such as this is a great choice for kids. Banana Porridge: How to Prepare Make your baby's breakfast exciting with this banana, cinnamon, and raisins recipe, suitable from 7 months. You will need the following ingredients to begin the recipe. To start you need to have at least half a mug of porridge oats Then take one mug of full-fat milk Slice up one banana into small pieces. Take a handful of raisins and chop them up into small pieces. Get a pinch of cinnamon to add flavor Instruction The first step is to cook the oats with the milk and banana slices in the pan. In the second step, you will need to bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally, and then reduce the heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Pour in water if necessary. The third step: Stir in cinnamon and raisins after removing the pot from the stove. The fourth step: Cool the food before serving it. Use different kinds of fruit in your smoothies, such as poached pears or mixed berries. The Benefits Of Banana Baby Food Not only are bananas delicious and convenient, but they also contain a lot of good nutrition, which makes them ideal for babies. In terms of health benefits, bananas are far superior to apples. The reason is that they are richer in vitamins and nutrients than their round counterparts. The carbohydrate content of bananas is twice that of apples, the iron content is five times that of apples, and the phosphorus content is three times that of apples. As well as potassium, fiber, and natural sugars, bananas are also rich in nutrients. Vitamin C, potassium, and other vitamins and minerals in bananas play an important role in health maintenance. Bananas contain such a high amount of nutrients that they should be considered a "superfood.". Energizer Energy is better derived from bananas than expensive sports drinks. The calories in two bananas are sufficient for an hour-and-a-half walk or workout. A banana also makes a great pick-me-up. Do not grab a cup of coffee or a sugary snack whenever you feel sluggish or tired in the afternoon. Eat a banana instead. There will be no crash after drinking coffee or eating cake, so you will have more energy. Enhancing heart health In addition to their potassium content, bananas facilitate the delivery of oxygen to the brain through the circulatory system. It is also effective in maintaining a regular heartbeat, lowering blood pressure, and maintaining a proper balance of water in the body. Women over 60 are also known to benefit from potassium-rich foods since they reduce the risk of stroke. Natural Laxative Constipation might be a thing of the past if you eat bananas. Eating bananas can help you digest food better, so they're very healthy. Bananas that have ripened well have a fiber that helps restore and maintain regular bowel movements. The movement of waste through the bowels is improved by the consumption of a banana. You can improve your baby's bowel movements by adding bananas to their diet. The Health and development of the baby will be improved in the long run. Notes Its sweetness and starch make it a versatile flavor, which goes well with tropical fruits such as guava, lychee, mango, and papaya as well as juicy berries like blackberry, blueberry, and strawberry. Pair bananas with hearty nuts like almond, cashew, coconut, walnut, or peanut; dairy products like kefir or yogurt; starchy vegetables like carrot and sweet potato; and nutty grains like amaranth, quinoa, and rice. Conclusion Bananas are not without fault despite their nutritional benefits. Traditionally grown bananas are heavily sprayed with pesticides, harming the environment and compromising the health of the workers and consumers who consume the food. Bananas should be peeled and discarded to minimize their pesticide exposure - there has been a growing demand for sustainably cultivated and equitably sourced bananas. When it comes to eating banana peels and food products made from them (like banana peel flour), purchase organic or consider these foods as a "one-in-a-while" item – and wash the peel before cooking to remove pesticide residue. Yummy Valley is the place to go if you need quality banana powder. Their ingredients are completely transparent. You can trace the ingredients back to their source. You don't have to worry about the quality. If you like to learn how this mother feeds nutritious food for her baby, click here!
View More7 Tips I Use To Make My Baby Eat Healthy
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
7 Tips I Use To Make My Baby Eat Healthy Most of the little ones find it boring to eat something healthy and they are more excited to munch some fries, relish some chocolates or candies. It is a herculean task to make them fall in love with healthful food. With some tricks and tips, this hurdle of making the tiny tots eat healthily can triumph over. Convincing your baby to eat healthily First of all, make them convinced and relaxed with their pretty platter. As a new mom, at first, I found it difficult to cope up with the tiny tantrums thrown by my baby over food. However, now I have almost excelled myself in the task of feeding my cutie pie. I always encourage my baby to learn more tastes and flavours, as I want my kid to be a daring diner and not a picky diner. Be patient with your kids The very first thing I have done to make my little one love food as much as I do was to develop a loving relationship with food. And I recommend this to every parent out there to make their babies embrace healthy eating habits. We should always set our mind to appreciate the liking and disliking of children towards food and we should understand that it takes time to foster healthy eating habits in kids. As they are just learning to taste and enjoy their food, they should not be turned down by judging them as a bad eater. Every kid is different and possesses a different rate of learning and parents should never be adamant to make their kid learn the eating habits at the same pace as another child. Parents should provide anything and everything that is healthful to their children. Do not make them get bored with the same flavours or foods and let them explore and enjoy the different savouries available in the world. Mix it up with tips and tricks Just like us, kids prefer to have the same food every day; they crave varieties and changes. Not only the flavour but also the texture of the food item should be made different concerning their interest and age. They should be served with both smashed and diced vegetables, fruits, and other food items. Their healthy diet should be enriched with both liquids and solids. They should be allowed to gulp and chew their savouries from their tumbler and plate respectively. Another trick to make the tot relish his or her food is to prepare their food in different shapes, which can be of their favourite cartoon characters, and animals. With a cookie-cutter, every dad and mom can go on with their shape experiment. It is so lovely to add a smiley on top of every food that is served to the baby and make the little one smile at their food, which is smiling back at them. Become a role model to your kid Mealtime with a toddler will be a stressful time for parents and it is something that cannot be helped. Howbeit, parents should take extra care not to make their kids anxious or nervous, which will undeniably hold back their appetite. Elders should set themselves as role models for younger ones at the dining table by not fiddling and meddling with others especially kids who share the table with them and they should relish their food with a full heart. This will for sure make the kids focus on their own plate and enjoy their food. By making a better environment for dining, the children will eventually fall in love with food. Children love snacks and candies and they are never health-conscious, every parent should consider this attitude of their kids and should respect it. Parents should replace their unhealthful choices with much healthier and tastier choices and should be mindful of the nutrition intake of their kids. Accept the fact the kids are messy and encourage them to have their food themselves. They may play in between eating, they may convert the dining room into a total muddle, whatever they do should be fine with the parents, as they are experiencing their food and should never be dispirited. The Fruit and Vegetable bandwagon For cultivating a better relationship towards fruits and vegetables, children should be offered at least one portion of fruit and vegetable per day. If they are reluctant to have their vegetables or fruits, then it is better not to compel him or them to have the whole thing at a single go and should offer them more than a few servings each day. Try to feed them only when need food or when they are hungry and do not set up a proper dining timetable for them. Healthy Servings Children usually possess a tendency to accept food, when they are starving, so parents should take up this opportunity to feed them with the most healthful serving. And it is better to prepare something vegetarian as the starter or the main course that is offered first. Click here if you want to learn the must-have nutritional guidebook from one mom for every mom! Desserts that wow them After finishing their whole meal gracefully, it is better to surprise them with a healthy dessert that can be fruit salad, a piece of homemade cake, or something just as delicious. One of the most important things that every parent should keep in mind is not making any assumptions regarding the expressions made by the little one. Parenting with care Being a parent is not at all an easy task and there are no well-written rules and regulations for doing extremely well in the field of parenting. Parents are born with the little one and they will grow and learn together with them, so it is nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. Although, it is a challenging job, still parenting is the most fulfilling and rewarding feeling in the world. Developing a healthier eating habit in their kid happens to be the most daunting of all tasks in parenting, but this can be trounced with the above-mentioned tricks and tips.
View MoreHow I Overcame Postpartum Depression
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
How I Overcame Postpartum Depression As per my experience, usually, the first year after childbirth presents a high risk of postpartum depression. This Postpartum depression caused difficulties in my ability to engage in the interactions with my baby. According to my understanding, it affects the baby’s later development and well-being. Postpartum depression usually begins with insecurity within a month of the baby’s birth. The symptoms, which follow include anxiousness, sadness, low self-esteem, lethargy, and sleeplessness. Postpartum Blues, the milder version has the mother feeling overwhelmed. I had the misfortune of having the pregnancy blues wherein I went through a prolonged period of emotional distress during my pregnancy. Upon understanding I might have Postpartum Depression, I analyzed the risk factors. As everyone is aware, pregnancy, labour, and childbirth are an emotional rollercoaster with the gruelling nine months adding to the misery. The symptoms included feeling irritable, suffering from a lack of concentration, experiencing sleep abnormality, feeling exhausted and fatigued, and having a lack of motivation for taking care of my baby. Constant fear and anxiety, sleeplessness having suicidal tendencies, having trouble enjoying the usual activities, and feeling restless and irritable are the general symptoms showcased by many who silently suffer from the dreaded postpartum depression. The symptoms of postpartum depression vary between people. As mentioned, these include severe anxiety and panic attacks, depressed mood/mood swings, fear of being a bad mother, sleep problems, appetite changes, difficulty bonding with the baby, diminished ability to think clearly, sense of guilt and shame, and hopelessness among others. Causes and risk factors are the ones to keep an eye out for. Hormonal fluctuations cause a major mood change and can create a depressive atmosphere. The massive mood drop and the onset of breastfeeding can trigger a high risk of developing postpartum depression. One needs to be constantly in touch with themselves and understand their mental strength. The risk factors of postpartum depression include various medical complications, depression symptoms, and alcohol drug abuse issues. It can also be extended to financial difficulties, traumatic experiences, and a lack of strong emotional support from others. Now that we are aware of how postpartum depression occurs and its risks, lets’ look at how to restore one’s emotional health. I did have some of the symptoms and risk factors that led to a mild level of postpartum depression. However, I am always open about my feelings and emotions to my family and loved ones. Although I struggled, the constant support from my family and friends helped to fight against the dreading feeling of postpartum depression. I constantly kept myself updated about my condition and tried to engage myself openly through all the ensuing challenges with an open mind. My constant learning about the condition helped me stabilize my mental state, which helped me in recovering from postpartum depression; a major step in regaining my healthy emotional state. As per my understanding, postpartum depression ranges from mild, moderate, and severe conditions. If it turns to be severe, proper medical professional help is a necessity to come out of this kind of depression. However, if it is mild, it can be taken care of at the beginning itself. There are some simple solutions that I tried and practised on myself. These include not expecting too much out of yourself, sleeping often, eating well and staying fit, having an excellent or good support system, and seeking medical help if required. Coping with the demands of a newborn life may go haywire. So, take it slow. Just relax and focus on one task at a time. Stop being anxious if your house is a mess or lot of tasks to do. Just concentrate your energy on creating a strong bond with the baby. The best time to sleep is to sleep with your baby. Give your body proper rest for recuperating from the strains of labour. Eat and exercise well by following a balanced diet filled with nutrient elements needed for a breastfeeding mother. Going for a walk, jog, or swim can do wonders to your physical and mental psyche. Take the baby out for a stroll. A breeze of fresh air and a good environment will help in recovering from the postpartum depression blues. The proper support system consisting of an educated partner/spouse will go a long way in treating postpartum depression. Have a good talk with your partner/spouse on the postpartum troubles as well as tantrums. Indian system of a big family does help with fighting off this dreaded postpartum depression, which is an amazing thing. This is because a big family has more than one group of support systems, which relieves stress from a new mother’s mind. It also helps with fine-tuning the newborn baby care with much ease. If severe symptoms of postpartum depression are on display, it might be wise to seek professional and medical help. You can always come to us mothers at Yummy Valley where we all share our experiences and help one and other out on our journey through motherhood. If you like to learn what this mother learnt on completing her first 100 days as a mother, click here! A good counselling session will do wonders as this helps one fight the signs of depression. In case if it fails, medications would be prescribed for treating the condition as well as the underlying causes. It is normal to take medication. One should not feel hesitation to take these medications in fear of how society might react. This situation will only serve to aggravate the condition as it can become harmful to your baby and your support systems. Complications of postpartum depression are the following: A baby/child facing the consequences of maternal depression showcases a delayed development of vocal skills, will be more restless, more prone to anxiety disorder, and might become cranky for a prolonged period. So, postpartum depression should be treated as soon as possible for your baby/child to be healthy. Being aware of all this knowledge, I was determined to fight off the postpartum depression I had. With proper support systems, I fought off my postpartum depression. You can do so as well without feeling any kind of anxiety. The tips discussed here is a good benchmark on how to fight off postpartum depression.
View MoreThings Breastfeeding Moms Should Know
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Things Breastfeeding Moms Should Know Being a mom is a great responsibility and throughout this journey, you will be having a lot of questions about the newborn and how to be a good mother to your kid and many more. Believe me, I have also been through the same and was a seriously confused person when it came to motherhood. While you are pregnant, you will be hearing many stories about other people’s experiences connected to pregnancy and childbirth. You will also be hearing stories about other responsibilities coming after childbirth and the main topic of discussion at that stage is breastfeeding. I have heard multiple stories from my friends and relatives about their breastfeeding experiences, some of them worked beautifully and some others went wrong. I was completely overwhelmed by all the information I got and was trying to demystify the process by trying to understand the basics of breastfeeding from authentic journals and also with the help of my doctors. When it comes to breastfeeding, you will be hearing non-stop opinions from others. But remember, you are the one feeding your baby so you should be the one to find a solution that works for you as well as your baby. I will share with you some basic information about breastfeeding and how it is to be done from the information I gathered from various trusted sources. You can have a good read here and can choose the information which you find apt and suitable. Before starting, let me share some information about preparing your breasts at the time of pregnancy. While you are pregnant, the glands responsible for milk making start to develop. There are multiple hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and also prolactin which play a major role in developing your breasts for feeding your baby. Your breast size will also increase while you are pregnant and also the area surrounding your nipples becomes darker which is an indication of the hormones doing their duty properly and you are getting ready enough to produce breast milk for the baby. Another doubt is when is the best time to start breastfeeding? The answer is as soon as possible. Ideally, you should breastfeed your baby within the initial hour after the delivery. Whatever concerns or confusion arise, you can seek the help of lactation consultants who are readily available at the hospitals at your service. Next is the frequency of breastfeeding. How often should you feed your baby? Initially, your baby won’t be demanding much and there is nothing to worry about because it is normal for the babies to show such a pattern. This brief feeding can also help in producing more milk supplies in your body. As the days pass by your baby will start showing a pattern for the breastfeeding frequency and this will give a signal to your body about the quantity of milk to be produced and your supply will get adjusted to the baby’s demands. It is also important to note the way how your baby latches on to your breast. If the breastfeeding latch is good, then the baby would be able to remove milk from your breasts very efficiently which helps in keeping your supply plentiful and steady. Also, note that this would also help you in avoiding sore nipples. Now that you got an idea about milk production and feeding patterns, we should also be aware of the effective and best positions to breastfeed. If your breastfeeding is effective, it encourages your baby to have a good breastfeeding latch. You can find many breastfeeding positions online and based on it, you can choose the one favourable to you. It is advised that if the newborn is having trouble latching, you could try the laid-back position or a cross-cradle position. You can also check on other positions so that you can try them once in a while or more. While you are following changing breastfeeding holds on each feeding, it would help your baby to drain milk from different areas of the breast. The production of breastmilk is based on supply and demand which means the more frequently your baby breastfeeds; the more you will be able to produce milk. There are three main stages that your breastmilk goes through in the initial weeks. During the first 0 to 5 days, the production of Colostrum begins, which is filled with essential nutrients as well as immunoglobulins. Even though your body is not producing a lot of Colostrum, the amount produced would be enough to fill your baby’s demands with everything they need. From day 5 to 14, your breasts will be feeling fuller than they were in the beginning, and at this time your milk changes from colostrum to transitional milk. After 14 days, your breasts start producing mature milk that has a thinner consistency in the beginning and becomes thicker and packed with nutrients in the end. While breastfeeding you must also be aware of the signs indicating that your baby is getting enough milk. If your baby is steadily gaining weight, going through six to eight diapers per day, and also having proper bowel movements you can easily infer that your baby is getting the milk required. If you are having issues with breastfeeding, then there are a variety of products in the market that would help you through the process. For latching problems, you can seek the help of breast shells as well as nipple shields. To protect your clothes from leaking breasts, you can use nursing pads, and also for easy breastfeeding on travel or other conditions, you can rely upon a nursing bra. Along with feeding the baby, it is also important that you must take care of yourself too. You must give yourself healthy nutrition to feed your baby. You must provide yourself time to heal and also have some proper rest. Taking a proper nap at regular intervals can be helpful to overcome the state of postpartum fatigue and also follow a healthy diet to maintain your health combined with slow and steady exercises.
View MoreNutritional Needs For Breast-Feeding Moms
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Nutritional Needs For Breast-Feeding Moms A breastfeeding mom needs a lot of nutrient-rich food to keep herself away from any stress-related issues or diseases. The right nutrients boost the health of my “little charmer”, and myself. More often than not, lactating mothers worry about the right kind of nutrients they should take for the healthy production of breast milk. Stop being anxious and read on; as you will get to know the exact nutrient needs that serve the purpose of keeping your “bundle-of-joy” healthy. In short, as per my personal experience, the nutritional status of a mother directly influences the quality and quantity of her breast milk. The extra demand for nutrients helps moms with secreting an adequate quantity of high-quality breast milk while safeguarding their health. The ten commandments of nutrient needs for breast-feeding moms, such as myself: Hydration is a must: It is no doubt that breastfeeding dehydrates a mother’s body. So, it is advisable to drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water. Hydration gets provided through fresh juices, milk, and soups as well. However, refrain from the use of caffeinated drinks including coffee, tea, and chocolate drinks. DHA: The DHA from mother’s milk help babies improve their psychomotor development. Some of the major sources of DHA include cod-liver oil and various types of fish varieties. It is essential for the infant’s brain development. Iron Content: Including pulses and legumes in the mother’s food fulfil all additional demands of breast milk. Other foods with iron content include green leafy vegetables, eggs, and watermelon among others. Calcium and Vitamin D: We all know calcium facilitates bone development and Vitamin D is a vital amine that helps infants grow their immunity. Calcium is present in milk and its products. These include cheese, paneer, yoghurt, green leafy vegetables, and ragi. Vitamin D sources include egg yolk and fatty fish along with morning sunlight. 3 Nutritious Meals a day without skipping breakfast: Breastfeeding drains out a mother as the process uses up calories. These make breastfeeding moms hungrier than usual. A balanced diet is required, which includes 3 nutritious meals without ever skipping breakfast. Some of the best snack options include nuts, fruit smoothies, veg rolls, sandwiches, and fruit platters. Limit excessive sugar and fat content: It is wise to cut down on food items with excessive fat and sugar such as potato crisps, chocolate cake, and soft drinks. They have very little nutritional value, which does not do any good to a lactating mother’s health. No alcohol or smoking: The consumed alcohol passes quickly onto the breast milk and can affect the baby’s health. Common nutrient needs for breastfeeding moms include avoiding tobacco products and smoking as these can interfere with the health of both mother and baby. Avoid Dieting: Although dieting is said to improve one’s health, undertaking this process during the breastfeeding period will drastically reduce the quantity as well as the quality of breast milk. Moderate exercises like walking or swimming help mothers maintain their weight during the breastfeeding period. Proteins: Protein requirement increases during the lactation period and supports the rapid growth of the baby. The foods inclusive of proteins are eggs, milk, milk products, chicken, fish, pulses, and legumes. Galactagogues: In India, herbs such as methi seeds, jeera, dill, and special preparations of methi laddu, almond halwa, laddu, dried ginger burfi, and various recipes using green leafy vegetables are recommended for enhanced breast-milk production while improving the lactation process. Certain herbs and spices like fennel, ajwain, and garlic helps with proper digestion and avoid colic pain in babies. Now that we know about the ten commandments of nutrient needs for breastfeeding moms, a proper diet plan needs to be designed to keep track of the entire breastfeeding process. A routine plan is made and followed as designed. It helps in keeping both the mother and baby healthy as long as possible. Nutritionally speaking, seasonal fruits such as apples, grapes, pear, melons, and bananas always provide moms with the apt nutrients. Vegetables like carrot, tomato, cabbage, cucumber, and beetroot are nutritious to all breastfeeding moms. A fun fact: During breastfeeding, the variety of foods in the mom’s diet helps the baby in appreciating a variety in both flavour and taste. Replenishment of vitamins and minerals becomes a necessity for all lactating mothers, including me. Vitamin A is a key element for boosting immunity and obtaining a clear vision in babies. Dark green leafy vegetables like spinach and fenugreek are rich in Vitamin A. In the case of Vitamin C, Amla is a gold mine of this nutrient. Folic Acid helps with cell multiplication. Vegetables such as cluster beans, spinach, peas, broccoli, and tomato consist of folic acid. While there is no specific diet that a breastfeeding mother should follow, a healthy routine needs to be followed. The baby benefits from breastfeeding, especially for the first 6 months. While a healthy and nutritious diet fulfils the needs of both mother and child, certain additional supplements need to be taken for following a health regimen, which improves the immunity in babies and lactating mothers. Although breastfeeding moms have their nutrient needs, the person might be allergic to certain food items. This is where additional supplements become a necessity. These should be provided under the expert supervision and prescription of a doctor. A lactating mother and her family should make sure that she gets all the nutrients needs from the food she is fed with. Fulfilling these needs helps with keeping both the mother and the child healthy and happy. The ten commandments highlight the path through which essential nutrients get incorporated into a breastfeeding mom’s diet. This nutritional diet helps in the secretion of good quality breast milk in adequate quantity. The baby gets to taste different tastes and flavours through breast milk while acquiring immunity. It helps the baby grow healthily as well. Thus, these are the nutrient needs for breastfeeding moms like me. So, what are you waiting for? Just follow through and let us secure a healthy life for our babies. If you like to learn how this mother makes healthy nutritious food for her baby, click here!
View MoreThe Ultimate Guide To Feeding Your Baby Solid Foods
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Feeding your baby solid foods Being a dad or mom is the best feeling in the world that is filled with a lot of responsibilities and obligations. Breast milk happens to be the very first food and the main source of each and every essential nutrient for the baby. After their first six months, babies can have soft foods together with breast milk. The very first thing to consider before feeding your baby with solid foods is the proper time to bring in the solid food. From six months and onwards, young ones can be fed with solid foods. It is the right time for the baby to start off trying his or her first solid foods. The nutritional requirements of the child will get bigger with time and the parents should be mindful of the type and quantity of food that should be provided to the babies. When they start feeding their little ones with solid food, parents should have a clear idea about the capacity of the little stomachs, and they should never cram it up with solid foods. Apart from offering food in single servings, the little one should be given solid foods repeatedly throughout the day. Different strategies and approaches to introduce solid foods:- Children find it really exciting to have some iron-fortified baby cereal during their first mealtimes. Cereals are rich in beta-glucan, which will clean up their intestines and make them feel really good. Mashed-up vegetables and fruits are the best-ever solid foods to be given to the tiny ones as their first foods. After they get used to fruits and vegetables, eggs and meats can be given to them. Everything offered to them must be in pureed form for making it easy for the babies to have it. Solid foods given to the little one should be rich in nutrition and the first foods for them should not be sugary, salty, and spicy, as those foods will make their stomach upset. The first solid foods should be easily digestible and healthful, as they are the ones that are responsible for catalyzing growth. Make their first bites healthy as possible for their healthy body. Feeding the little one is the most significant part of every parenting lesson, as it is an astonishing milestone in not only the baby’s life but also in every dad’s or mom’s life. This significant phase can be daunting and disturbing during the first few days, but soon, this phase will for sure turn into the most exciting and satisfying one. It is so lovely to watch your little one explores the tastes, smells, and textures of their first solid foods. You can definitely make this stage funny and cool in certain ways. What should parents know when introducing solid food to their kids? Every parent should set their minds to appreciate the fondness and aversion of their kids towards food and they should comprehend the fact that it takes a good amount of time to foster better eating habits in kids. Children should be offered solid foods only after their digestive system get developed enough to accept solid foods. If any child is provided with solid food before the proper development and growth of the digestive system happen, then it will definitely make the child sick and allergic to solid food. In the case of struggles regarding being underweight or overweight that may occur in children, it is better to consult a pediatric dietician before providing solid food to them. Albeit, parents should offer anything and everything that is healthy and nutritious to their child but they should never force the child to have it and they should be cautious and careful enough to not make them stressed on the dining timetable. By doing so, children will positively develop a rapport with the food they consume. Parents should be careful not to discourage the kids in front of their food platter by constantly cleaning up and wiping of the jumble. There will be a lot of trouble with the toddler, but it is totally alright as they are exploring the experience of food and flavour. Neither the parents nor the kids should get dispirited during the wonderful journey with food. In their experiments with a wide variety of solid foods, parents should keenly observe the food tolerance of the baby by checking out if there are any signs and symptoms like constipation, rashes etc. Here are 10 foods to look out for which you cant feed your baby Parents should be well-aware of the food items that are meant to keep away from the child’s platter. Just like we parents, our kids also prefer tasty foods and not some bland food. So, their bay palettes should be set in the tastiest and healthy way. You can include spices like cinnamon, nutmeg etc in their dishes. Flavours should be partnered with health benefits to make the child fall in love with the food together with attaining enough nourishment. Another important thing is to try varieties in their menu, as they will find it really boring to have the same food every day. Not only flavour and variety but also the texture of the foodstuff should be changed according to their liking and interest. Interest and excitement should be developed in the toddlers towards foodstuffs and make them relish the foodstuff with their whole hearts. Children should be well-taught about biting and chewing during their food journey. Parenting is never an easy job and this job will get even worse at the dining room with a little moppet. Parents should be prepared for a muddle at the dining table and although it is difficult, they should accept the fact that children are messy. Train yourselves truly well to excel in the very significant, interesting and intimidating task of feeding your little one with healthful solid foods by employing the perfect tried and tested ways that are mentioned above. With these guidelines you can for sure make this feed phase a definite cakewalk with your baby. Let him or her be a daring diner like you and explore the first foods with grace.
View MoreMy baby turned 100 days today – Here’s what I learned about her baby nutritional needs
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Baby nutritional needs Every parent knows that children should be fed a balanced diet. It is important that we provide our kids with a balanced diet that includes lean whole grains, fruits, proteins, and vegetables. Apart from that, you can also add a small amount of healthy fats. A balanced diet offers virtually all the nutrients that your kids need. One of the best things you can do for your baby is to start with healthy, nutritious food. At every age and stage, you can’t go wrong when you support your child learn to understand a healthy diet. Importance of breastfeeding and nutrition For a newborn, breast milk is the best. During your baby's first 3 months, breast milk or formula provides all the necessary nutrients. It contains essential vitamins and minerals to meet the baby's energy needs. Infant formulas are convenient for infants whose mothers are not able to or choose not to breastfeed. Babies as young as 3 months must drink breast milk or infant formula every few hours, or on-demand, to help meet nutritional necessities. Cow's milk or other dairy products shouldn't be fed until at least one year old. Your baby's kidneys cannot handle high levels of protein and minerals until this age. Babies digest formula is more slowly than breast milk, so if you bottle-feed your baby, he or she may drink less than breast-fed babies. There are many foods that your baby cant eat, click here to know more. Before making any decision that will affect the baby, several factors should be considered. Only in the absence of mother or mother’s milk, the baby should be given outside nutrition supplements. This can be done if the baby is allergic to milk, and substitutes should be chosen very carefully. Most of the infant formulas today are prepared from cow's milk. They are fortified to make them as close to breast milk as possible and provide babies with all the nutrients they need for growth and health. Largely cow's milk formulas comprise carbohydrates, in the form of the milk sugar "lactose", iron, protein, calcium, zinc, and additional minerals and vitamins (including A, C, D, E, and B). There is no so-called diet for a 3-month-old infant. How much should be fed and taken care of depends on the baby's weight. Most importantly, you should make sure that your baby is properly fed. When your baby appears alert and active, you can understand that her weight is steadily increasing and takes the feed 6 – 8 times a day. Also, make sure she wets and soils the diaper regularly. Generally, by the age of 3 months, babies should be supplemented with vitamin D in addition to breastfeeding. The current recommended minimum vitamin D intake for infants is 400 IU per day, soon after birth. This can be performed with the help of the morning sun. You need to remember that babies should only receive the morning sun rays as the heat is very light and has maximum benefits. Babies aged 0-3 months need 2 mg of zinc a day and breastfeeding babies should be supplemented with iron. Two months later, with the consent of the doctor, you can start to feed him juice, water, and other liquid foods as additional nutritional supplements. When feeding a baby with a bottle, it becomes very difficult to decide beforehand how much the infant will consume. He usually consumes 4 or 5 ounces of milk at the beginning of the third month and may add one ounce to each feed before the end of the third month. Some of the nutrients that babies need to grow and stay healthy include Calcium, Fat, Folate, Iron, Zinc, Protein, and carbohydrates. Your baby also needs vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, C, D, E, and K. Choosing Foods for your kids Nourishing your baby solid food too early can direct to overfeeding and being overweight. Solid foods usually do not help babies fall asleep all night. You will also find that your baby sleeps longer at night. In the first month, your baby sleeps most frequently and you need to feed them regularly. As the child grows, the feeding process will change and other foods will be added. You will only find that the child will gradually increase the quantity and the number of times will get reduced. You will observe changes every week, which will help you make decisions and feed your baby accordingly. In the second month, the baby can consume about 4 or 5 ounces per feeding. It is easy to overfeed a newborn with a bottle because it is effortless to drink from a bottle than from a breast. Make sure that the hole on the nipple of the baby bottle is the correct size. The liquid must flow slowly from the hole and not pour out. In addition, if your baby shows signs of being full resist the urge to run out of the bottle. Do not prop the baby bottle as it can cause choking and increases the possibility of getting ear infections and tooth decay. Breastfeeding moms always wonder how they realize their baby is getting enough. What goes in must come out, so counting wet diapers is a promising method to understand that your baby is getting plenty. In the first few days after birth, your baby should have at least 5 wet diapers per day. If you notice your baby having fewer wet diapers, you should immediately seek help from your baby's doctor or lactation consultant. Proper infant nutrition is essential for the continued health of children from birth to adulthood. Proper nutrition during the first three years of life is particularly crucial as these aspects reduces the risk of lifelong chronic diseases, and promotes normal physical and mental development. On the other hand, incorrect feeding techniques contribute up to a third of all issues of child malnutrition. This is compounded by the proliferation of refined foods like infant formula and commodities rich in salt, free sugars, and trans fats. This results in a rise in poor diets, obesity, and a striking reduction in the number of mothers breastfeeding their infants. Breastfeeding is essential to the development of children, including improving IQ, academic performance, and higher income in adulthood.
View MoreUnderstanding Baby Language
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Making Sense Of Goo Gaa & Ga Ga- Understanding Baby Language Every animal has its way of communicating mutually since its birth, just as it's kind. Dogs bark, cat's meow, cows bellow, horses neigh, so on and so forth. Humans are social animals and as conversationalists, we all have our language of communication. However, by birth, we as babies, go with the baby talk, Goo Goo Gaga or Gaga Goo Goo. The active and passive voice of babies. We were all born with this natural ability to interact with our fellow humans, be it parents, relatives, or even other babies. However, as we grow up, we forget what each goo goo gaga means and we end up unable to understand our babies when we ourself become a parent. The explanatory term used for this kind of loose talk is called babbling. Understanding baby language is an important step towards parenting. Baby talk may mean a lot of things and each babble is toned and pitched differently, just as how a k9 or feline’s bark or meow, respectively, varies with the length, sound, and modulation of it. These acoustic details in conjunction with the body language and mannerism, help us to understand what our little one is trying to tell us. From feeling hunger to feeling sleepy, restless, or any of the other exhibited emotions, let us look at the different connotations of Gaga Goo Goo, made by babies, to better understand them. The Art of Babbling by Babies Newborn babies start to make gibberish sounds of cooing and babbling with their vocal cords as you as 2 or 3 months old. Initially, they are just spurs and mumbles that are short-toned. For the most part, babies wail and whimper to gain our attention. However, as they grow a bit old within say 4 to 5 months, they start to conjoin individual sounds as though they have their own words to bring together into sentences. Hence the phrase Go-Go Gaga. Babbling is most important for babies as much as their day-to-day milk consumption! Babies make voluntary and involuntary sounds, just as adults do. Sounds like coughing, sneezing, burping, grunting, etc, all fall under the latter category. The former category includes the babbling, cooing, and mumbling sounds that babies make. Baby’s initial attempts at trying to talk, include sounds of giggling, cooing, and sometimes even laughing. Crying however is a reflexive action that even newborn babies can do at ease. So that is the most common way of drawing attention towards oneself, even among adults! Babbling truly starts when your newborn arrives at a half year old enough. As of now, children will make longer sounds that have more assortment, complex tone and volume, and syllable variety. Your newborn has gathered many sounds and commotions from you and others around them. At the point when your child sounds seem like ga ga, this is alluded to as reduplicated Babbling, or redundancy of a similar syllable again and again. Non-reduplicated Babbling would be the joining of sounds and syllables into, you got it! Gaga Goo Goo! From Babbling to Being Awesome! As children begin to grow up a bit, they begin to utilize their hands as an approach to speak with others. They will point at specific items to say “I need that! or offer that to me!” Other than the hand signals and sounds, babies additionally convey by reflexes. Countless various kinds of reflexes assist parents with getting what their child is attempting to say. As indicated by different examinations, when a child is ravenous, they will in general take hold of their mom's bosom or areola, which is known as the Sucking Reflex. Another reflex that children will in general utilize is the Startle Reflex when babies spread out their arms and legs. A child would uphold themselves like this to tell individuals that they are staying away from a fall. Another model is the Hand-to-Mouth Reflex, which is when babies begin to suck on an item. Babies are as cute and conversational as they can be! Even though they cannot genuinely say words to us, they can in any case utilize non-verbal communication to mention to individuals what they need or how they are feeling. Babies are more brilliant than you might suspect! To learn more about if your baby is hungry or has had enough click here
View MoreHow To Deal With Teething In Children
10 min read
Age: 6 to 12 months
Teething In Children Odontiasis, commonly known as teething is referred to the process by which a child’s teeth breaks out of the gum. This also marks the onset of your child’s journey to toddlerhood. Teething usually occurs between 6 to 24 months of age. While teething can be distressing for most babies, some babies are lucky enough to go through this process smoothly. Here are some common signs and symptoms of teething – a few essential things that you must keep a watch out for. Tender or swollen gums Irritation and constant crying Trying to bite on hard things Excessive production and excretion of drool Physical actions like cheek rub or ear pull Slight rise in body temperature, sometimes accompanied by cough So let’s learn more about each sign of teething and see how you can deal with them. Tender or swollen gums: Swollen gums, inflammation and tenderness during teething is quite natural. The good news is, swollen gums usually occurs just days before a tooth actually erupts. So you may only have to deal with the swollen gum trouble for 3 to 5 days. Once the teeth erupts, the swollenness reduces automatically. However, it is important to provide comfort to your teething child during these painful days. Solution 1: Give your child a cool message – sore gums really benefit from it. Keep a few clean cotton/linen handkerchiefs in the freezer. Simply take a piece of clean cloth and soak it in some water. Now put it in the freezer up to one hour. Using these will help soothe your baby’s sore and swollen gums instantly. Remember: Make sure you keep brushing your child’s teeth properly and regularly in order to prevent the buildup of bacteria inside your baby’s mouth. Constant crying: Teething causes uneasiness and your child may often end up crying incessantly. An irritated teething baby can be quite tough to calm down. And we know it can be quite a task to put the baby to sleep. Solution: Always keep a few of your baby’s teething toys in the refrigerator. A cooling gum massage with a suitable teething ring will help your child relax and soothe the gum, and lessen the irritation. It is advisable to use hard plastic teething toys, and avoid gel-filled teething toys. Biting on hard things - Constantly putting fingers in the mouth in an attempt to bite is the most common site of a teething baby. But it is not at all healthy for the baby to put its fingers in the mouth, is it? You have no idea about the millions of germs that might find their way to its stomach. No wonder, loose motion is a common side effect of teething babies. Solution: Use hard plastic teething toys and disinfect them regularly. You can either use the traditional process of boiling the baby teething toys for five minutes and then cooling them off. If you want to be extra sure you can also use the process of first washing the toys with a mild/children friendly detergent and warm water, and then soaking the toys in a mixture of distilled white vinegar and warm water. Rinse them with clean cool water after fifteen minutes. Excessive production and excretion of drool: Drooling indicates that your baby salivary glands are becoming more active. However, not all is being used to digest its food, which is usually milk at the age of six to eight months. Babies tend to drool more than usual during the teething period. The problem is excessive excretion of drool can cause a rash around the mouth – cheeks, chin and neck area. This is caused due to the presence of bacteria in the saliva. Excessive drool can also gag the child, which adds to the woes of teething. Solution: Rub away as much drool as you can, with a clean soft cloth. Always keep the area around the mouth and neck clean and dry. You can also give your baby a cool teething toy to chew on. However, if rashes appear, then we suggest you consult a paediatrician and apply emollient, or barrier cream to prevent and heal your baby’s skin. Constant cheek rub and/or ear pull: The irritation and trouble a baby faces during teething is actually immense for these little beings. To deal with the clumsiness inside the mouth, a baby often ends up scratching cheeks or pulling ears in the hope of finding some relief. However, such actions have high chances of having serious scratches or cuts on your child’s cheeks and ears. Remember, baby nails grow really fast and are usually very sharp. Solution: Divert your baby’s mind to other things. Talk, and play with him or her. Also, give a cool teething toy, or a cold message to relax the soreness caused inside the mouth. Rise in body temperature: There are possibilities that your baby’s temperature may rise at times during the teething period, but only slightly. The fever usually comes a day or two before the teeth erupt and goes away after the teeth cuts through the gum. Teething fever may also be accompanied by cough. Solution: For slight fever use paracetamol syrup and give the baby an age-appropriate dose (in case you are aware of it). If the fever crosses 101 Fahrenheit, then it is advised to consult a paediatrician and give proper medication to your child. Remember, teething is actually good news that your baby is taking its natural course of growth. You can even surprise your child with some teething toys to help in his teething journey! Now we know that the three most essential things that we must keep handy are wet and cooled clothes, properly cleaned and cooled off teething toys and normal fever medication. However, it is always good to be sure about what you are dealing with before giving any medication to your child. Always consult your child’s paediatrician just in case you can’t be sure yourself. Happy parenting! Want to the best summer foods for your child? Click here!
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